Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals

Water is the universal solvent, meaning many chemicals easily dissolve in it. Water also flows towards lower elevations, like lakes. In our city of lakes, you might see why growing chemical use and water quality can be a cause for concern.

Flushing chemicals down your home’s drains should never be a means of disposal.  Here are a few examples of things to never introduce to sewer pipes:

• Pharmaceuticals, cleaning solvents, disinfectants, pool chemicals, paints, stains, varnishes, paint thinners/strippers

The improper disposal of medications and chemical products is detrimental to our local watersheds and aquatic life. It is important that we practice proper waste disposal to mitigate chemical exposures to our water systems.

Household chemicals:

• Try using the City’s Waste Wise app to book a free Toxic Taxi home collection appointment. Download the Waste Wise mobile app, use the online tool or call 705-560-9019 for bookings.
• You can also drop items off at the Household Hazardous Waste Depot, open on select Saturdays.

Pharmaceuticals:

• Most pharmacies will take back unused/expired pharmaceuticals – visit www.healthsteward.ca to find a pharmacy near you!