Some smoke detectors contain a small amount of radioactive material called americium 241 (am-er-ish'-ee-um). Look on the back of the unit for the designation Am 241. Some dual function alarms, for smoke and carbon monoxide detection, also contain americium 241. Single purpose Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors do not use radioactive substances. In Vermont, smoke and CO detectors that do not contain non-removable batteries can be trashed, or you may choose to recycle them and keep them out of the landfill by bringing them to the ARCC (fees apply). Smoke detectors can be recycled at the ARCC.
- Smoke detectors