INSTRUCTIONS

DO NOT put a fire extinguisher in the trash or the recycling bin. This items is accepted at UCRRA’s FREE Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection events due to the potential hazard related to compressed gas cannisters. UCRRA’s FREE HHW collection events are open to Ulster County residents ONLY, and an online appointment is required. Learn more here. 

OTHER OPTIONS

Alternatively, you may can contact your local fire department for more information about fire extinguisher disposal or follow the directions outlined below.

For safe disposal: relieve the pressure, remove the head, and recycle empty with scrap metal. When relieving the pressure, review manufacturers’ instructions, or use the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) PASS technique:

  • Pull the pin: discharge the extinguisher. Some extinguishers may have other seals or tamper indicators.
  • Aim low: Point the extinguisher nozzle (or hose) at the ground.
  • Squeeze lever above the handle: discharge the extinguishing agent. Releasing the lever will stop the discharge.
  • Sweep from side to side.

After pressure has been relieved, (when nothing else comes out) remove the head from the fire extinguisher. DO NOT place the fire extinguisher in the recycling bin.

Contact: UCRRA at (845) 336-0600 or visit UCRRA’s HHW page for more information