With the holiday weekend launching a season of summer cookouts, the Department of Environmental Protection is reminding Pennsylvanians to take care when disposing of charcoal and other outdoor items to avoid hazards such as fires and protect the safety of waste haulers, landfill operators and the public.

Homeowners should be especially careful when disposing of the following items:

-- Charcoal - Coals can remain hot enough to start a fire for several days and can cause fires in home trash cans, trash trucks and at landfills. Always soak coals in water.

-- Chlorine and Pool Chemicals - Many pool chemicals such as chlorine, when mixed with other household chemicals, can create toxic fumes that can sicken family members and waste haulers, and can also react with other chemicals to cause fires.

-- Paint - Tightly seal large amounts of paint and store upside down in the original container for future use or give excess paint to a friend or neighbor. Take oil-based paint, stain and thinner to household hazardous waste collections whenever possible.

-- Batteries - It is illegal to dispose of automobile batteries in your trash. Cell phone and computer batteries contain metals and chemicals that are hazardous to the environment.

-- Gasoline, Kerosene and Charcoal Lighter Fluid - Do not dispose of gas and lighter fluid cans unless they are empty. When disposing of empty cans, make sure the lids are removed to avoid fires and explosions.

-- Pesticides, Cleaners and Degreasers - These items contain chemicals that can injure humans and animals, and can also pollute drinking water supplies.

-- Gas Grill Canisters - Compressed gas containers present a risk of explosion that could kill or injure sanitation workers and innocent bystanders. Make sure small canisters are empty. For larger tanks, check with a local propane dealer to see if they will recycle the tank.

The best method to manage these materials is to avoid generating them by not purchasing more than you can use. Pennsylvania's Household Hazardous Waste Hotline at 1-800-346-4242 or county recycling coordinator can provide information on proper disposal.

Many communities conduct Household Hazardous Waste collection events throughout the year. For a list of county recycling coordinators and a schedule of these collections in your area, visit: http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/airwaste/wm/HHW/HHW.htm .

5/28/2004