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Storm Water Management
Health Department
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About Mercury
A technical report issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in July 2001 addresses the hazards of mercury and the measures pediatricians can take to reduce children's exposure. One of the chief conclusions of the report is that pediatricians and parents should stop using mercury-containing thermometers. In a press release the AAP said, "Although the amount of mercury in a single thermometer is usually insufficient to produce clinically significant exposure when ingested, if the thermometer breaks, the mercury vaporizes and can be inhaled, causing toxicity. As a result the statement calls for an end to the use of all mercury-containing thermometers."
Mercury is a silver-white metal that is liquid at room temperature. Mercury is toxic to humans and can cause death. In its liquid form, mercury is easily absorbed through the skin. Exposure to high levels of mercury can permanently damage the brain, kidneys, and developing fetuses. Effects on brain functioning may result in irritability, shyness, tremors, changes in vision or hearing, and memory problems. Short-term exposure to high levels of metallic mercury vapors may also cause other effects including lung damage, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increases in blood pressure or heart rate, and skin rashes.
Mercury Thermometer and Thermostat Pickup
If you are a resident of Plano, you may call the Health Department at 972.941.7143 to schedule a pick up time for your mercury thermometers or mercury thermostats. Please note that thermometers that are red in color do not contain mercury and are not considered hazardous waste.
Plano's Recycle/Reuse Center
The City of Plano Environmental Waste Services Division operates a Household Chemical Reuse Center where Plano residents may obtain reusable household products, collected through the residential chemical collection program and approved for reuse, for free. The Reuse Center is a facility for redistributing items collected through residential chemical collections only. Chemicals are not accepted at the Reuse Center. For more information, please contact Environmental Waste Services Customer Service at 972-769-4150.
Plano Materials Exchange Program
Plano Material Exchange is an Internet-based reuse and recycle program that connects Plano residents who have unwanted but usable household goods to other citizens or non-profit groups who may need them free of charge.
By exchanging the items, individuals are practicing "recycling through reusing." It's quick, it's easy, and it's fun! |