The dangers of tire dumping
Illegally dumped tires create health and environmental risks in communities. Tires collect rainwater and provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes that transmit illnesses. These piles also are a fire hazard. Tire fires, which are extremely difficult to extinguish, release toxic air pollutants and generate oil that can contaminate the ground and surface water.
The “See It, Report It” campaign, developed in partnership by the SC Department of Environmental Services, PalmettoPride and SC Department of Natural Resources, encourages residents to quickly and anonymously report illegal tire dumps in their communities. Check out SC DES’ resources on waste tires.
In addition, residents should never let someone dump tires on their property. Landowners could be held liable for cleanup costs. Residents can call PalmettoPride’s Litter Busters Hotline to report illegal tire dumps. All information is held in strict confidence and the caller’s identity is not released.