South Broward News

Routine vehicle maintenance can be a leading contributor to stormwater pollution. Stormwater runoff carries pollutants such as soap, oil, antifreeze, gas, transmission fluid and other products used to maintain your vehicle to local waterways. These pollutants are harmful to the environment and the natural aquatic ecosystems. The following guidelines will assist you with managing vehicle maintenance to help protect local waterways:

• Perform vehicle maintenance in an area where chemicals and fluids cannot be washed into a storm drain.
• Check all vehicles, motorcycles, boats and other watercraft and outdoor recreational vehicles for leaks.
• Change vehicle fluids carefully. Use a funnel and drip pan to avoid spills.
• Immediately clean up any chemical spills with an absorbent material such as cat litter. Do not hose down.
• Drain fluids from vehicles and parts before storing.
• Wash vehicles at a full or self-service car wash where used water is recycled and does not generate runoff.
• Park vehicles on the lawn when washing them so rinse water will be absorbed into the grass.
• Use waterless car cleaning products or phosphate free, biodegradable soap.
• Use a trigger or twist style hose nozzle when washing your vehicle to shut off water when you are not using it.
• Dispose of household hazardous waste and electronics at regularly scheduled Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Events.

Click here to learn more about how to prevent stormwater pollution and practice responsible water conservation during car washing and maintenance activities.

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