In January of 1981, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission eliminated the requirement that consumers return smoke detectors to the manufacturers for disposal.
In January of 1981, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission eliminated the requirement that consumers return smoke detectors to the manufacturers for disposal. They determined that the radioactive element in smoke detectors posed no danger when disposed of in landfills. Place your spent smoke detector in your garbage or trash or contact the manufacturer to see if there is a return program.