It is estimated that Hoosiers generate about seven million scrap tires each year.  When not disposed of properly, these waste tires often become mosquito-breeding habitats and pose a significant fire hazard. 

When left outside, waste tires collect and hold rain water.  That warm, stagnant, nutrient-rich water creates an ideal breeding ground for many types of disease-carrying mosquitoes.  Over the course of a breeding season, one tire can generate thousands of new mosquitoes! 

Large piles of waste tires that ignite pose a difficult and expensive problem for firefighters.  Some large tire fires that have occurred across the country have burned for months because emergency responders were unable to control them. Burning tires generate a great deal of pollution.  The thick dark smoke from even one burning tire contains carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, benzene and butadiene.  The average passenger car tire contains two gallons of oil.  That oil is released as tires burn and can contaminate the ground and surface waters. 

Fortunately, many tire recycling programs exist to help manage scrap tires.  All retailers in Indiana that sell new tires are required to accept tires from individuals that purchase tires at that establishment.  Many tire retailers are also willing to accept additional tires from the public for a small fee.  When purchasing new tires, Hoosiers should make the choice to allow the retailer to retain and recycle their old tires.

Many tire recycling events are also held across the state.  Contact the solid waste management district in your area to find our more.