Residents of Morden received notice of a change in how hazardous household waste is being treated in their community.

Paint cans, potent cleaners, fluorescent lights, and other chemicals are now to be dropped off at the Municipal Waste Management (MWM) depot at 456 Jefferson St. which officially opened Monday, May 15. This new system replaces the annual spring drop-off day.

"Material comes in and we collect it in a safe manner, and then we ship it out," said Tim Oliver, general manager of MWM.

"[This] is what our industry is all about, providing as many services as we can when it comes to waste and recycling," he added.

"It can become unsafe if residents have [waste] in their homes for extended periods of time," Oliver said. The danger is compounded when chemicals are mixed.

Drop-off service is free of charge and is available Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m

Pembina Valley Containers also offers free a hazardous waste drop-off option for Morden residents, available Monday to Saturday at 160 Grant St. in Morden.