Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- Smoke detectors can be subdivided into two categories: photoelectric and ionizing.
The ionizing kind is radioactive and may pose hazards to human health in large quantities. With that said, if you’re throwing away a single smoke detector it can be done safely with your regular household trash.
Some smoke detectors can also be returned to the manufacturer. Give the company a call or if you still have the old packaging lying around, check it for information about whether the company offers a return service.
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