GOOD TO DO
Maintenance
- If you discover spots in your driveway, or find that your fluids must be refilled between services, make repairs right away. Use a drip pan to catch any leaks until repairs are made
- Place large drip pans under wrecked cars until all fluids are drained.
- Change your oil away from storm drains and have old rags or cat litter available to respond in case of a spill.
- Check your radiator hoses when changing your oil, and inspect your car at the first sign of a coolant leak. Used coolant should not be dumped down household drains because it contains chemicals that may cause problems for wastewater treatment plants. Instead, deliver used coolant to an auto parts store or hazardous waste collection facility.
- Do not store used vehicle parts in areas that drain to a storm drain.
Cleanup
- Clean up any leaks using a broom and dry absorbent materials, such as cat litter. Do not wash leaked fluids down garage or driveway surfaces into the street or storm drain.
- Take your vehicle to a commercial car wash. This is actually the most environmentally-friendly way to clean your car. Car wash facilities are required to recycle water and discharge dirty water to the wastewater system instead of the stormwater system.
- If you wash your car at home, it’s best to do so on grass or gravel to help absorb the water and filter out pollutants. If you must wash your car on a paved driveway or street, use soap sparingly and use a hose nozzle with flow restriction or a bucket and sponge to minimize runoff and save water. Empty dirty wash water into sinks or toilets instead of on the pavement.
Disposal
- Take all used oil, fluids and batteries to an auto parts store or hazardous waste collection facility for proper disposal.
Donating
- When it’s time for a new vehicle, give your old one a second life through donation. Donate your car, truck, or motorcycle to a charitable organization such as Virginia Wheels for Wishes, Goodwill or the Purple Heart Foundation. Most organization also accept boats, campers and RVs.
