OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR) is hosting a one-day collection event for boaters and Orange County residents to dispose of marine flares free of charge. The drive-through event will be held from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Saturday, August 27 in Dana Point Harbor at 34555 Casitas Pl Dana Point, CA 92629. Unexploded, expired flares create health and safety hazards. Boat owners are encouraged to participate in this essential public service event to safely dispose of these items.
Signal devices, including marine flares and smoke signals are considered explosives and can be difficult to properly dispose of. OCWR welcomes boaters to take advantage of this limited opportunity. Participants will need to transport expired flares in their trunks. Upon arrival to the drive-through event, staff will collect items directly from vehicles and safely store them for disposal. OCWR will also welcome walk-up disposal near the restrooms by the marina.
“We’re proud to host this free event that keeps hazardous flares off boats and out of landfills,” said Tom Koutroulis, director, OC Waste & Recycling. “Marine flare disposal is difficult due to costs and permit requirements. We look forward to providing this vital public resource to boaters throughout the County.”
This is a marine flare disposal event only. Items that will not be accepted include electronic flares, military flares, or any other hazardous waste such as paint, oil, e-waste or batteries. For information on the proper disposal of household hazardous waste visit OCLandfills.com/hazardous-waste. For general recycling questions visit OCRecycleGuide.com.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, August 27
- Time: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Location: Dana Point Harbor at 34555 Casitas Pl Dana Point, CA 92629 (Major cross streets: Harbor Blvd. & Casitas)
- Accepted items: Signal devices including residential boater marine flares and smoke signals
- Unaccepted items: No military grade flares or household waste will be accepted
The Marine Flare Disposal event supports OCWR’s commitment to safe and proper disposal of hazardous waste. OC Healthcare Agency will also be onsite providing information on their free Bilge Pad Exchange program. Participants will receive a free boater kit coupon and flare discount coupon courtesy of The Coastal Commission.