trash to treasure

• Always bring a buddy with you, OR tell someone where you will be going.
• Wear bright colors (or a reflective vest), be mindful of your surroundings, and obey all traffic laws.
• Use caution when working on roadways. Work during the day so cars passing are able to see you, and never pick up trash in the middle of the street.
• Be very careful when picking up sharp objects. You should always wear sturdy gloves, or avoid picking up objects with your hands altogether by using a pickup stick.
• Don’t pick up hazardous materials, such as razor blades, syringes, animal carcasses, and condoms.
• Don’t pick up broken glass or plastic with your bare hands. If you do so, you may get cut. Wear thick, sturdy gloves, like gardening gloves, when handling such material.
• Always wash your hands after picking up litter. Bacteria thrives on food and garbage, which can make you extremely ill.
• If you’re not sure you can handle it safely, DON’T!

Tips for adults to review about how to deal with sharp or Hazardous objects:

• You can use a sturdy plastic container like a laundry detergent cannister to contain any sharp objects, and label it clearly.
• Sometimes needles are found in the community. Safe disposal of needles prevents others from getting hurt accidentally but should only be done by a responsible adult.
• Children should NEVER pick up needles or hazardous objects, and should report these items to an adult without touching them!
• To report found needles or other hazardous materials: You can contact the property owner or the city of Utica by using the 311 app or call the Utica Police Department non-emergency number (315) 735-3301
• Needlestick Injuries are Preventable!

How to report concerns to the city

• Download the 311 Utica app to report concerns like potholes, broken pavement, or garbage to the city of Utica

Remember to appropriately dispose of all waste that you collect that won’t be used in your project!

You can use multiple bags to sort litter for recycling, garbage, or your art project.

• Metal recyclables include things like soda cans, soup cans, foil, and bakeware.
• Plastic should only be recycled if it is clean. If you find plastic bottles with liquid inside, even if it’s just a small amount, throw it away in a garbage bin. Plastic bags also should not be placed in recycling bins.
• Paper & cardboard can only be recycled if they are dry and unsoiled.

Visit the Oneida Herkimer Solid Waste Authority to find out how to dispose of different kinds of litter:

• Household Garbage Disposal: Much of the litter on the streets will not be recyclable due to degradation of material from being exposed to the elements. Place garbage from your cleanups in blue bags with your regular household garbage, or ask a nearby business if you can use their dumpster.
• What is Recyclable? Only clean materials in good condition are recyclable. Check these guidelines for more information.
• Styrofoam is not recyclable – consider using it in your art project!
• Household Hazardous Waste FAQ