Hold off on trips to landfill, district says

The District of Squamish is urging residents to consider essential trips only to the Squamish landfill until after the COVID-19 pandemic is over.

“We know there are many who are taking advantage of this extra time at home to tackle household projects but we are encouraging all residents to hold off on making unnecessary donation drop-offs and trips to the Landfill for the time being,” says Mayor Karen Elliott.

The landfill remains open with physical distancing. The last customer load will be accepted at 5:45 pm, 15 minutes before closing. Due to operational changes in light of the pandemic, customers should expect longer wait times and delays, district says.

Any used equipment such as masks, gloves, sanitary wipes and other medical waste poses a health and safety risk to landfill staff. All medical waste must be bagged separately before it is discarded in order to limit the transmission of COVID-19, district adds.

Here is a checklist for locals:

*   Ask yourself if the items need to be disposed of immediately;
*   Maximize space in your recycling tote and store any excess recyclables;
*   Create a donation station at home for a later drop-off;
*   Stay home if you are feeling ill;
*   Ensure all waste is disposed of properly.