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| Fact Sheet |
Date: Oct 4, 2008 |
Hurricane Orphan Drum Program |
EPA and hazardous waste
The U.S. EPA helps retrieve, and safely dispose of, hazardous wastes that pose a threat to human health and the environment. Among these threats are orphan drums. Currently, EPA is picking up orphan drums and containers misplaced by the hurricane.
What is an orphan drum?
Orphan drums - and tanks - are containers that may contain hazardous substances such as propane, industrial chemicals, and unknown substances.
Where are orphan drums located?
Orphan drums can be found everywhere - including yards, fields and alongside roadways.
Why are orphan drums dangerous?
Orphan drums may contain hazardous substances that are harmful to human health and the environment. Orphan drums may be leaking unknown substances and contaminating local air, water and soil.
What should I do if I discover an orphan drum?
Above all, do not open, touch the contents or remove the orphan drum! Call 1-800-671-6022 and report its location.
What happens to an orphan drum once the EPA retrieves it?
At the location, EPA personnel will:
- Assess the orphan drum container;
- Transfer it to another container if leaking;
- Ships to a hazardous waste facility for final disposal.
Visit EPA's Hurricane Web site: http://www.epa.gov/hurricanes
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