Environmental & Health Risks of Unmanaged Waste Tires

Accumulated waste or scrap tires can have harmful effects on public health and the environment. They can catch on fire, releasing toxic fumes. They also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes which can spread disease, according to the Hall County (Georgia) website.

Fires

• Tires that catch on fire are difficult to put out. The petroleum-based rubber in tires releases hydrocarbon fumes as it burns, which pollute the air.

Water Pollution

• Any water used on burning tires becomes contaminated with an oily residue that contaminates the soil and groundwater. Any fire retardants sprayed on the tires do the same thing. A tire fire can continue for months, especially if there are numerous tires burning.

Mosquitoes and Rodents

• When tires fill up with rainwater and warm up in the sun, mosquitoes lay their eggs in them. Some species are associated with strains of encephalitis, like West Nile. Rodents like rats and mice can also make their homes in scrap tires and breed.