How to Report Freon Venting to the EPA

Freon is a chemical compound used mainly in refrigeration systems and as an air-conditioner coolant in buildings, homes and cars. Freon isn't shown to have adverse effects in humans or animals at low levels, but inhalation of high levels can cause irregular heartbeats and deterioration of psychomotor skills. The EPA's main concern with freon is that its properties deplete the ozone layer, causing higher concentrations of ultraviolet light to filter through the atmosphere. The EPA regulates the production and use of freon and investigates reports of excessive freon emissions.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Phone

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit the EPA's "Protect the Environment: Report Spills and Environmental Violations" website to report an emergency or a legal violation.

• 2

  Call the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 if you think the freon venting in question poses an immediate threat to the public.

• 3

  Call your regional EPA office. Most violations are handled at the regional level.

• 4

  Click on the "epa.gov/tips" link in the middle of the page to report a violation of freon venting that doesn't constitute as an emergency.

• 5

  Fill out the information form completely and click on the "Send Report" button at the bottom of the page. This will electronically report a violation for the EPA. You don't have to include your name if you want to report the violation anonymously.