Every home and business should have a working fire extinguisher handy. Fire extinguishers are remarkably effective in preventing fire damage. 80% of all fire incidents can be handled with a portable extinguisher.
But did you know the very same fire extinguisher that can put out a fire is itself an environmental hazard when improperly disposed of?
When a fire extinguisher gets too old, it needs to be disposed of. But it’s not as simple as tossing it into your trash. Waste collectors prohibit the disposal of fire extinguishers in regular garbage pickup or curbside recycling.
Why is it dangerous to dispose of an expired or empty fire extinguisher in this way? The canister can explode when crushed as part of your trash/recycling collection. This can cause injury to the hauling operator, processors, or bystanders. It can also damage the truck, landfill equipment, or recycling processing machinery.
The common components of a fire extinguisher are materials that are recyclable. These include aluminum from the tank itself and steel for the valve and other components. Pressurized extinguishing chemical agents and propellant rest inside.
Rechargeable fire extinguishers last up to 15 years. You should check the pressure gauge monthly to ensure it is holding a charge. The National Fire Protection Association recommends recharging extinguishers every six years. Dispose of extinguishers every 12 years.
Look for a household hazardous waste (HHW) collection program in your community. Call first to find out if they will accept an old fire extinguisher. You may have to pay a disposal fee.
Wait for a community hazardous waste collection event. In many areas, municipalities will offer days to bring waste that a regular trash collector will not accept.
Find a local recycling facility that will take old fire extinguishers. Use the comprehensive listing at Earth911 to find a recycler near you who will accept old fire extinguishers.
Depressurize the extinguisher yourself and recycle it. Get assistance in depressurizing a fire extinguisher from your local fire department. Once depressurized, let the canister sit for a few days and then release any remaining pressure.
If you’re lucky, you’ll never have to use your fire extinguisher. Most fire extinguishers sit for quite a while before an emergency arises.
Inspect your extinguisher regularly. An old fire extinguisher can be unstable and unsafe to use. Professional fire extinguisher companies recommend inspecting a full-size rechargeable fire extinguisher once a year.
Discount Dumpster is your trusted source for roll off dumpsters. We service a variety of projects, including cleanouts! Beware; fire extinguishers are prohibited in dumpster rentals. They are one of many prohibited items.
Have no fear! Our team can assist you with how to dispose of fire extinguishers in your area. Call us today to get started!
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