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Follow the 3Rs -- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

There are two ways to reduce your use of household hazardous products:

• Choose safer, less toxic products.
  
• Use less of a product.
  
• Read the label before you buy.

Products won't be labeled "hazardous" so look for these signal words:

• POISON (highly toxic)
  
• DANGER (highly toxic, flammable or corrosive)
  
• WARNING (moderately toxic)
  
• CAUTION (slightly toxic)
  

Use the right amount.

• You won't get twice the result by using twice as much. Follow label instructions.

Don't mix products.

• Mixing products can cause an explosion or other dangerous chemical reaction.

Learn more about the chemicals in your home. Do a home inventory.

If you must use potentially hazardous products, please follow these suggestions:

• Buy the smallest amount needed for the task.
  
• Store products in their original container.
  
• Keep away from children and pets.
  
• NEVER mix chemical products, even if they have similar functions.
  
• ALWAYS keep working area well ventilated.
  
• Reduce your use of batteries by buying rechargeable batteries.
• You'll have to buy a battery charger first. Over time you'll save money and help the environment.

Try water-based paint.

• Clean up is easy. Water is less expensive than solvents and gentler on the environment.

Cedar chips, dried lavender, rosemary or mint make great smelling alternatives to mothballs. They work well, too.

If you make your own cleaners, it's safer to stick to published recipes. Most ingredients can be found in the home--salt, baking soda, lemon juice, white vinegar and borax. Click here for examples for use in the home and laundry.