KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Residents across the Monadnock Region will have several opportunities this spring to safely dispose of household hazardous waste during collection events hosted at the City of Keene’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility.

The collections will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the facility next to the Keene Recycling Center at 55 Old Summit Road on the following dates: May 13, May 30, June 13, June 17 and June 27.

Communities participating in the program include Acworth, Chesterfield, Dublin, Gilsum, Greenfield, Hancock, Harrisville, Jaffrey, Keene, Marlborough, Nelson, Peterborough, Richmond, Stoddard, Sullivan, Surry, Swanzey, Walpole and Westmoreland. Residents from those towns may dispose of up to 10 gallons of household hazardous waste per vehicle at no cost.

People living in non-participating communities may still use the facility but must pay disposal fees directly to the contractor, North Ward Environmental Services. Fees are $110 for up to 10 gallons, $240 for more than 10 gallons and up to 20 gallons, and $550 for more than 20 gallons and up to 50 gallons. Residents are encouraged to check with their local town offices because some municipalities may reimburse the expense.

City officials said proper disposal of hazardous materials is important for protecting public health and the environment. Household chemicals that are flammable, toxic, corrosive or reactive can create dangerous conditions if thrown in the trash, including toxic fumes, fires or explosions. Improper disposal can also contaminate groundwater, streams and septic systems.

According to the information provided by the city, the average household discards roughly 15.5 pounds of hazardous materials annually.

Items accepted at the collections include products labeled flammable, combustible, poisonous, toxic, corrosive or hazardous. The facility will also accept mercury-containing products such as fluorescent light bulbs, thermostats, thermometers, mercury button batteries, switches, heating lamps and vape products.

Some materials will not be accepted. Latex paint should be dried out before being placed in regular trash, while makeup and toiletries should also be disposed of with household garbage. Medications can be taken to the Keene Police Department, CVS or Walgreens for disposal.

The city said fireworks, flares, ammunition and gun powder should not be brought to the facility and instead should be reported to New Hampshire State Police at 603-223-8590. Smoke detectors should either be returned to manufacturers or brought to a future hazardous waste collection event.

The Keene Recycling Center does not accept asbestos waste. Residents seeking information about asbestos disposal can visit the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services website for guidance and a list of licensed disposal contractors.