Good Question: How to properly dispose of old fire extinguishers?

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - For today’s Good Question, Michael asks: What can be done with outdated Fire Extinguisher’s in our home as I’m sure they’re hazardous therefore not allowed to be put in with the trash for Rumpke trash pick up?

Fire extinguishers should not be thrown straight in the garbage. A pressurized fire extinguisher could be a safety hazard to sanitation workers, and the chemicals could be an environmental hazard.

First Alert says their disposable fire extinguishers have a shelf life of 10 to 12 years, although it can vary by brand.

Lexington disposal options

In Lexington, fire extinguishers fall under hazardous household waste. The city has collection days for that material. The next collection day is Saturday, May 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1631 Old Frankfort Pike.

There is another option in Lexington. The fire department says if you have an expired but unused fire extinguisher, you can drop it off at the fire training center on Old Frankfort Pike. They use those extinguishers during the Citizens Fire Academy. While you may not want to depend on them in an emergency, they can be used to give people hands-on training with fire extinguishers.

Other disposal methods

If you are outside of Lexington, check with your local waste management company to see how they handle fire extinguishers. You may also check with your local fire department to see if they have a policy and could put them to use.

Sometimes you will be required to completely empty the canister before it is disposed of. First Alert says that can be done outside, into a garbage bag.

If you have a Good Question you’d like us to try to answer, send it to goodquestion@wkyt.com.