Public Works

Protocol for Found Tanks

​Protocol for Found Tanks, Suspicious Bottles/Jars and Oil/Fluid Spills during inspections and clean ups

On occasion, citizen volunteers come across items that require special handling, consideration and disposal during regular inspections or while cleaning up an area.  We need to take special steps to ensure the safety of citizens and the community when we happen upon tanks, suspicious looking bottles and jars, spills and hazardous materials.  In addition, there is another threat posed by any type of tank or suspicious bottle, since discarded tanks may have been used for the production of drugs or other illicit purposes.  The "one pot" meth labs tend to use 2-liter bottles or large glass jars. 

Please practice extreme caution and follow smart safety protocols at all time.  If you have any doubts about the safety or identification of any material, call 911 or 703-792-6500 for assistance.

If citizen volunteers find any type of tank (i.e. gas, propane, water):

• Report the tank to the Cleanup Organizer.
• Leave the tank at the spot it is found. 
• Do not move or handle it.
• The organizer should call 911 or 703-792-6500 if the situation appears to pose a threat to the community.
• The organizer should also call Public Works at 703-792-5608 or email [email protected] to report the location of the tank using landmarks to help staff find the tank, as well as any other details you feel are important.  Public Works staff will coordinate with Public Safety to ensure the safe handling and disposal of the tank. 
• Public Works will either arrange to have tank removed by a licensed contractor or have staff transport the tank to the landfill for disposal as scrap metal.

If citizen volunteers find any oil or fluid spills on the ground:

• If the situation appears to pose a threat to community, call 911 or 703-792-6500 so fire or police personnel can respond.
• Volunteer organizer should note location and report the area of concern to Public Works.  Call Public Works at 703-792-5608 or email [email protected] to report the location and any other details to help find and respond to the spill.
• County will work with a licensed contractor for disposal of this material.

If citizen volunteers find hazardous waste containers or spills:

• Call 911 or 703-792-6500 so fire or police personnel can assess the situation.
• County will work with a licensed contractor for disposal of this material.