Garage

Practice Car Care for Cleaner Water

Cars contribute to water pollution in obvious ways such as when fluids leak, and less obvious ways such as through brake dust, pieces of tire, and other small particles that normally get left behind when driving or small particles in the exhaust that eventually settle in waterbodies. You can still play a big role in reducing the amount of pollution caused by your car.

  • Avoid washing your car on a paved surface. Take it to a car wash or wash it on a lawn. Car washes are required to treat dirty water and your lawn will help filter pollutants.
  • Keep your car tuned up to reduce the number of pollutants in your car's exhaust, as well as save money on gasoline.
  • Recycle motor oil, antifreeze, and other car fluids at a local auto supply store or with your mechanic and never pour them into a storm drain.
  • Repair leaks right away and use kitty litter to clean up any spills.

Dispose of Chemicals Properly

Never dump chemicals down storm drains. Chemicals do not belong in storm drains or the waterbodies they drain to, including:

  • Oil
  • Paint
  • Pesticides
  • Pool chemicals
  • Soaps and cleaners
  • Other chemicals

Take unwanted hazardous waste to Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, held twice a year in spring and fall. Contact the Board of Health at 781-270-1955 for more information. Remember, only rain down the drain!