The Public Works Department will begin scheduling appointments for its annual wood mulch delivery program on Tuesday, March 1, 2022. Deliveries will take place on April 1, April 8, April 22 and April 29 (all Fridays) to residents’ driveway aprons.
 
This program is only available to single-family residences within Village limits. The cost is $15 per cubic yard, with a 3 cubic yard minimum order size and a maximum of 10 cubic yards. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis and fill quickly. Please call Public Works at (847) 705-5200 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., starting on March 1 to schedule an appointment.
 
For smaller amounts of mulch, residents may visit the mulch bins at the Village’s holding site at 550 N. Smith Street near the Smith Tank water tower. Please bring your own shovel and containers. There is no charge to pick up your own mulch.
 
For more information, visit our website or call Public Works at (847) 705-5200.

The fire department often gets asked when to replace or how to properly dispose of fire extinguishers.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has different standards based on the type of extinguisher. The NFPA states, “Rechargeable fire extinguishers must be emptied and subjected to an internal examination every six years” whereas “disposable extinguishers must be removed from service twelve years from the date of manufacture.” It is best to check with the manufacturer to see when you should replace/refill your extinguisher.

Portable fire extinguishers should be replaced if they exhibit any of the following problems:

• Loss of pressure on the pressure gauge despite not being used
• Cracked or clogged nozzles
• Wobbly or broken handle
• Damage to the shell
• Passed its recommended lifespan

If it is time to replace your extinguisher due to damage or expiration, you need to dispose of your old extinguisher properly. Fire extinguishers are under pressure and are considered hazardous waste. Extinguishers are not accepted at your curbside refuse pick-up and some recycling centers will not take extinguishers. The Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County provides a list of recycling options. A few of the centers listed below are located in or near Cook County.

• Henrichsen’s Fire and Safety Equipment - Wheeling, IL
• Chicago Household Chemicals and Computer Recycling Center - Chicago, IL
• U.S. Fire and Safety Equipment Company - Elgin, IL