Vehicles and Garages

Actions You Can Take

Prevent vehicle fluids, such as oil and antifreeze, from entering a creek, stream, or storm drain by disposing of them properly.
Contain spilled fluids immediately with rags, kitty litter, or other absorbent material.
Check cars for leaks and have the car repaired if any are found. Keep cars tuned up.
Store hazardous materials properly in the original closed container.
Dispose of any unwanted chemicals at a household hazardous waste collection center. Never pour hazardous chemicals into the street, ditch, gutter, creek, stream, or storm drain.
Do not mix different engine liquids.
Recycle used motor oil. Some gas stations and auto supply stores will accept used oil.
Use ground cloths or drip pans beneath the vehicle if there are leaks or when working on vehicles.
When washing cars at home, use a shutoff nozzle on the hose to reduce runoff.
Park cars on the lawn to wash them so that it will allow some of the pollutants to be filtered out before entering the closest water body.
Use a bucket and sponge. Save using the hose for the final rinse.
Look for car care products that do not contain dyes and phenols.