What the proper way of disposing an old fire alarm?

Question

I think the thing has some sort of nuclear reactive substance inside, so I'm not sure if I should just toss it out with the normal garbage.

Answer 1

Please don't throw it in the trash.  Ionizing type detectors do contain a small amount of radioactive material, usually Americium 241, which has a half-life of 458 years. It's not dangerous in this type of use under normal circumstances, but we should try to dispose of these things properly to keep Americium 241 out of the air and drinking water.  

So.....

Take it to a household hazardous waste collection site or event.   Please visit the web pages of your local Environmental Agency and see when/where they collect household hazardous waste.  These events typically also take old oil based paints, solvents, gas canisters, ammunition, pesticides, and fluorescent lamps...including those little compact fluorescents that everybody likes.

Answer 2

ROTFLMAO

nuclear reactive substance? Just toss it in the trash.