Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

CAUTION:  Some smoke detectors contain a small amount of radioactive isotope that can be hazardous to humans and the environment.  The device’s label and user manual should indicate if it contains the isotope and offer contact information for the user to return the smoke alarm after it is no longer wanted.  Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are NOT accepted at the YCSWA Electronics Recycling Program or Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event.

REUSE:  New, unexpired smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be able to be donated or sold.  An internet search such as “donate smoke detector York PA” will show businesses that accept this material for donation, or click here to view a list of York County donation/reuse outlets.  Reusable items can also be resold at garage sales, consignment stores and on internet sale platforms.

TRASH:  If you cannot locate the manufacturer of your smoke detector or if your smoke detector does not contain a radioactive isotope, it can be disposed in the regular trash.  Any device that is strictly for detecting carbon monoxide contains no radioactive materials and can be disposed in the regular trash.