How to dispose of Fire Extinguishers (and why it’s getting more complicated)

So, you’ve got an old or redundant fire extinguisher lying around, maybe it’s out of date, damaged, or just been replaced. Before you toss it in the skip or drain it out, stop right there.
Disposing of a fire extinguisher isn’t difficult, but there is a right way to do it, and certain steps must be followed to avoid it becoming costly, unsafe, or even illegal. It’s essential to make sure every step is done in the correct manner.

Here’s the correct step-by-step guide to getting rid of one safely and responsibly:

Check what type of extinguisher you’re dealing with

Start by looking at the label. Is it water, water with additives, foam, wet chemical, CO₂, powder, or water mist?
Each type has its own disposal process. Foam extinguishers, for example, can contain PFAS, while water-based ones without PFAS additives are generally harmless. Knowing the type helps you (or your waste contractor) handle it properly.

Pro tip: If the label’s faded or unreadable, don’t guess; contact your supplier/service provider or a licensed fire safety provider like Jewel Fire Group to identify it before taking any action.

Don’t discharge it just anywhere

This is where people often go wrong.

If it’s a foam extinguisher, never empty it into drains, soil, or any outdoor area, as this type requires specialist disposal. Many older foams contain PFAS, which can contaminate water supplies and carry hefty environmental penalties if released improperly.

This also applies to water with additives and wet chemical extinguishers.

If it’s a C02 extinguisher, these can be refurbished by some companies, so contact your supplier who can arrange to have them collected and taken away for you for recycling. If it’s a Powder extinguisher, these too need to be handled with care to avoid powder spillages.

However, water mist extinguishers are different. Because they contain only de-ionised water, they can be safely discharged (in controlled conditions) before recycling the cylinder.

When in doubt, check with your local authority or your fire safety provider for specific disposal advice.

Take it to a recycling or waste centre

Most local household recycling centres and licensed waste carriers accept old fire extinguishers, an important step in recycling fire extinguishers responsibly. They’ll safely:

Depressurise the cylinder

Remove any leftover agent, and

Recycle the metal and plastic parts where possible.

Never try to puncture or dismantle an extinguisher yourself; the internal pressure can cause serious injury if handled incorrectly.

If you’re a business, use a professional fire extinguisher disposal service

Businesses have a legal duty to dispose of hazardous waste correctly. That means using a licensed waste carrier with a valid waste licence, or a professional fire safety company (like Jewel Fire Group) that offers specialist disposal for fire extinguishers.

A certified provider will:

Identify the extinguisher type,

Safely dispose of it.

Provide a waste transfer note and all other required paperwork for your records, and

Ensure the waste ends up at a compliant recycling or disposal facility.

This is the easiest and safest route, especially for sites with multiple units or different extinguisher types.

Keep disposal records (for businesses)

If you’re operating as a business or facility, you, as the original extinguisher owner, must keep disposal records, including a waste transfer note and proof that the extinguisher was handled by a certified licence holder with a valid waste licence, for at least three years.

These records prove your waste was handled by an authorised carrier and disposed of responsibly, protecting your company from fines or environmental compliance issues. It’s not just good practice. It’s the law.

In short

Proper fire extinguisher disposal is all about safety, compliance, and environmental responsibility.
Check the type, discharge safely (if allowed), use licensed handlers, and keep your paperwork in order, and you’ll be doing it right.