Properly disposing of a fire extinguisher is important because they contain pressurized chemicals that can be harmful if not handled correctly. Whether the fire extinguisher is empty, expired, or still functional, here’s how you can responsibly dispose of it in Florida:
Check If the Fire Extinguisher Is Usable
Before disposal, check whether the fire extinguisher can still be used:
- Inspect the gauge: If the pressure gauge shows that the extinguisher is still charged (needle in the green zone), it might still be usable. However, if the needle is in the red zone, it may be empty or over-pressurized, indicating the need for disposal or servicing.
- Check the expiration date: Most fire extinguishers have an expiration date, typically 10-15 years from the manufacture date. If it’s expired, it’s safer to dispose of it and replace it with a new one.
If the extinguisher is still usable and hasn’t expired, consider keeping it or having it serviced.
Discharge the Fire Extinguisher (If Empty)
If the extinguisher is empty or nearly empty, you can safely discharge any remaining pressure before disposal. Here’s how:
- Discharge the extinguisher outdoors: Point the nozzle away from you and discharge the remaining contents, preferably in an open area. Make sure no one is nearby and avoid inhaling the chemicals.
- Press the trigger: Hold down the trigger until all pressure is released and nothing else comes out.
- Remove the head: Once the extinguisher is completely empty, remove the head to ensure that no one mistakes it for a charged extinguisher.
After discharging and removing the head, the extinguisher can often be disposed of with regular trash or recycling, but always check with your local waste management provider.
Take It to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility
For fire extinguishers that are full or partially full, it’s important to take them to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility in your area. HHW facilities are equipped to handle pressurized and potentially hazardous items like fire extinguishers.
- Contact your county’s HHW facility to find out when and where to drop off your fire extinguisher. Most counties in Florida have drop-off locations or collection events where you can safely dispose of hazardous materials.
- Examples of counties with HHW programs include Miami-Dade, Broward, Orange County, and Hillsborough County. You can visit their respective websites or call your local waste management office for specific instructions.
Local Fire Department
Some local fire departments in Florida may accept old or expired fire extinguishers for proper disposal or recycling. They often have the resources to safely handle these materials.
- Call your local fire department and ask if they accept fire extinguishers. If they don’t handle disposal, they may be able to direct you to the nearest HHW facility or recycling center that does.
Specialized Fire Equipment Companies
Specialized companies that sell and service fire extinguishers often provide disposal services. These companies may refurbish or recycle parts of the extinguisher or properly dispose of it.
- Fire protection companies like FireMaster or A & A Fire and Safety in Florida may offer fire extinguisher recycling or disposal services. Contact them to inquire about their programs.
Recycling Centers
Some local recycling centers may accept fire extinguishers, particularly if they are completely empty and made of metal. The key is to confirm that the extinguisher is depressurized and safe for recycling.
- Contact your local recycling center to ask if they accept fire extinguishers and whether they have any specific requirements for dropping them off.
Curbside Bulk Waste Collection
Some municipalities in Florida offer curbside bulk waste collection for hazardous materials like fire extinguishers. This service allows you to schedule a pickup for items that can’t go into regular household trash. However, not all curbside programs accept fire extinguishers, so it’s important to check with your local waste management service.
- Call your local waste management provider to see if they offer special collection days or bulk pickup for fire extinguishers.
Conclusion
To properly dispose of a fire extinguisher in Florida, you have several options depending on whether it’s empty or full. For empty extinguishers, discharge the remaining pressure and take them to a recycling center if possible. For full or partially full extinguishers, take them to a Household Hazardous Waste facility, your local fire department, or a specialized fire equipment company. Following these steps ensures the extinguisher is disposed of safely and responsibly, minimizing environmental impact and safety risks.
