Many people know how and when to replace fire alarms and extinguishers, but they are unaware of the ways to dispose them. Manufacturers of fire extinguishers have taken this thing as a serious note and thus, they are sharing easy tips for disposing fire extinguishers and alarms.
Smoke Alarms Disposal
As per expert’s research, both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are composed of plastic, electric circuit boards, and sometimes batteries. When you need to dispose these fire alarms, you must know that ICSDs are not recyclable because of the radioactive content present in them. And thus, you must dispose the unit properly by using these tips-
As per expert’s research, both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are composed of plastic, electric circuit boards, and sometimes batteries. When you need to dispose these fire alarms, you must know that ICSDs are not recyclable because of the radioactive content present in them. And thus, you must dispose the unit properly by using these tips-
- Remove the battery and use it again.
- After that, you should safely remove the plastic cover and recycle it.
- Take it to the manufacturers who know how to dispose it. You can take help of user manual or warranty card to find the contact of the manufacturing company.
- Just in case your manufacturer doesn’t accept the unit, you can search for a drop off unit or recycling points in your area.
Fire extinguishers are different and need to be handled with care. There would be two reasons for disposing these products- Either your extinguisher is too old or the contents have been discharged.
Disposing Extinguishers If These Are Not Empty:
If The Extinguisher Is Empty:
In both cases, you should follow the instructions shared by manufacturers of fire extinguishers. When you find that it’s time to dispose the old extinguisher, make sure you install the new unit immediately after disposal. After all, fire extinguishers are products that keep your place safe and protect it against fire.
Disposing Extinguishers If These Are Not Empty:
- Check the pressure gauge- The extinguisher should contain a gauge that tells whether it is overcharged, if it’s in need of a recharge or if it’s at the right pressure. This will give you a hint about the condition of your unit.
- Contact your fire department- Your fire department may help you and exchange your extinguisher or recharge it.
- Take your unit to HHW (Household Hazardous Waste) event- Extinguishers that contain contents are still hazardous and thus, you must find nearest HHW collection event or program with the help of Earth911.
If The Extinguisher Is Empty:
- Push the lever above the handle to ensure that all the present contents are discharged.
- Take off the head
- Recycle the steel body
In both cases, you should follow the instructions shared by manufacturers of fire extinguishers. When you find that it’s time to dispose the old extinguisher, make sure you install the new unit immediately after disposal. After all, fire extinguishers are products that keep your place safe and protect it against fire.