if you use solvents...

Solvents and solvent containing paints, coatings, strippers, cleaners, and  adhesives are a common source of air pollution. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contained in these products evaporate to become one of the two primary ingredients of smog.

If you use solvents:

• Consider alternative water or citrus based products, or solvents with a lower volatile organic compound (VOC) content. For assistance call the Air Pollution Control District's Business Assistance Line, 961-8868, or e-mail business@sbcapcd.org.

• Keep product containers tightly closed at all times when not in use.

• Never pour chemicals on the ground, in the gutter, or down the storm drain. Keep waste solvents in a tightly sealed container for proper disposal. If spilled, clean up with an absorbent material such as cat litter and store in a sealed container until properly disposed. Soaked rags can be a fire hazard.