Car and truck leaks may seem minor. Still, according to the Unified Government, they pose a serious threat to local waterways. Oil, antifreeze, and other automotive fluids drip onto driveways or streets. When it rains, these fluids are washed into rivers and streams. This creates pollution risks for both the environment and public health.
The UG notes that just one quart of motor oil can contaminate as much as 250,000 gallons of drinking water. Even small spills can do long-lasting damage.
To help prevent pollution, the UG’s Environmental Services team recommends several precautions for residents working on their vehicles:
- Recycle oil and other fluids rather than disposing of them in storm drains. The UG points to Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events as a safe option.
- Store new and used fluids under cover and in secondary containers to catch leaks.
- Inspect vehicles regularly to spot leaks early.
- Perform maintenance on hard surfaces with a tarp, plywood, or cardboard underneath to collect spills.
- Use drip pans when changing fluids and clean spills quickly with rags or absorbent material.
- Wash cars at commercial facilities equipped with oil/water separators. If washing at home, do so on grass rather than pavement.
The UG stresses that automotive fluids should never be poured into storm sewers or directly into waterways. For more information, residents can visit the Stormwater Quality Program webpage. Concerns about improper disposal can be reported to Public Works’ Environmental Services Stormwater team at (913) 573-1300.
