Missouri DNR coordinates mercury drop-off program

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is working with local health departments and other agencies to provide locations to drop off items containing mercury. The department is hoping to rid homes and businesses of items such as thermometers, blood pressure cuffs and thermostats to prevent the accidental release of mercury, a toxic metal that is liquid at room temperature.

To dispose of an item containing mercury, the department is asking that it be prepared by placing it within two zip-top plastic bags and then putting it inside a sealed container such as a coffee can or plastic margarine tub.

Southeast Missouri locations to drop off the items after securing them include the Cape Girardeau County Health Department, 1121 Linden St.; the Perry County Health Department, 406 N. Spring St., Perryville, Mo,; and the Scott County Health Department, 102 Groves Estate Court, Sikeston, Mo.

Pertinent address:

1121 Linden St., Cape Girardeau, MO

406 N. Spring St., Perryville, MO

102 Groves Estate Court, Sikeston, MO