Solid Waste reminds public to prepare for season
Hurricane season calls for proactive measures to safeguard homes and properties.
Lee County Solid Waste is encouraging residents to follow the below tips to minimize the risk of damage from high winds and flying debris during storms:
– Trim trees and branches: Cut back any trees or branches that make contact with your house, pool cage, shed or other buildings. This creates a safe distance, preventing potential damage during severe weather.
– Thin foliage: Improve wind flow and reduce the chances of plants becoming uprooted by thinning the foliage in your yard. This allows wind to freely pass through branches, minimizing the risk of damage to your property and nearby structures.
– Proper yard waste disposal: Place trimmings at the curb on your regular collection day. Containerize or securely tie bundles of yard waste, ensuring they weigh no more than 50 pounds and do not exceed 6 feet in length. Up to 50 pounds of unbundled palm fronds may be placed at the curb. Do not use plastic bags for yard waste, neither clear nor black plastic; acceptable bags are those made of brown paper.
– Remove potential projectiles: Prioritize safety by thoroughly cleaning your property and removing any items that could become projectiles in high winds. Place these objects at the curb on your regular waste collection day for proper disposal or storage.
Also, keep in mind proper battery disposal as you replace batteries. To find out what to do with each type of battery, visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste/battery-disposal. You can also download the Recycle Coach app to your phone or visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste/recycle-coach.
While cleaning up your yard, consider cleaning out your shed or garage. Residents can take paint, fertilizer, pesticides, old generator fuel or other chemicals to the Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility, at 6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers, for safe and responsible disposal. It is an easy, drive-through process available to residents for free. The site is open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to noon.
For more information, visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste or call 239-533-8000.