It’s important to remember to switch out your home smoke detector when it has reached the end of its functioning life and properly dispose it. Household smoke detectors contain a small amount of the radioactive isotope Americium-241, but it is not necessary to treat these items as low-level radioactive waste. Instead, do the following: 1. Remove any batteries from the smoke detector that are easily accessible. (Do not breach smoke detectors with non-removable batteries to get the battery out.) 2. Dispose of your old home smoke detector(s) in the regular trash. Alternatively, you may be able to return smoke detectors to the manufacturer, if the manufacturer can be contacted and agrees to take the item(s) back. Use the Call2Recycle website to find a recycling outlet for any batteries removed from the smoke detector. Small rechargeable batteries, like those used in smoke detectors, should always be dropped off at these outlets for recycling. Primary batteries may be disposed of in the regular trash if you’re unable to find a recycling outlet for them. Still have questions? Call 311 and we'll be happy to assist you.