After receiving several reports of improperly discarded cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE), Keep Hall Beautiful is asking all Hall County residents to be mindful of how they dispose of these and similar items.

“We have been hearing from more and more people who are seeing wipes, gloves, and other related items on streets and walking trails, or being left behind near supermarkets and pharmacies,” said Executive Director Shanda Sexton in a release sent to local media Tuesday evening.

“The basic rules for proper trash disposal are taking on greater importance, given the COVID-19 virus, she said. “These materials are being used to protect us from possible contamination from COVID-19. If they are not disposed of properly, we are risking the spread of this life-threatening virus.”

Sexton said that anyone using these items should think ahead in regard to the eventual disposal of the item, including utilizing nearby trash receptacles or keeping a bag inside their vehicle that can later be emptied out.

She also discouraged anyone from cleaning up wipes, gloves or similar items that have bee improperly discarded by others, as this carries a risk of possible contamination.

“No one wants to spread the disease, so we must be careful to properly dispose of these materials,” she continued. "If you used the PPE, it’s your responsibility to dispose of it.”

Keep Hall Beautiful is the Hall County affiliate of the national nonprofit organization Keep America Beautiful.