How do I get rid of pepper spray/mace containers?

1) Agencies dealing with small numbers of canisters: 
Empty out each one by holding it underwater, press down on the release button expelling the contents. A pail of water works well. The water will dilute the chemical permitting the water to be poured down the drain. The empty canister may then be disposed of in the trash since it no longer has any pepper mace inside. Releasing mace into the atmosphere is not recommended. It creates an unnecessary risk to personnel - - - a sudden shift of wind could lead to a very unpleasant experience.

2) Agencies with large numbers of canisters (too many to dispose of individually): Either send over to the fire department for disposal with other hazardous materials, or include in the agency's next hazardous materials pickup related to a drug lab/raid.

3) Specific laws on disposal are based on state laws and local ordinances. Some states do not regulate the disposal of containers once used for toxic substances, other states do regulate the items. To determine if any specific laws apply to your state or local area, contact the Department of Toxic Substance I Control (DTSC), O.S.HA or other similar type office. Ask for the "Duty Officer". He or she will be able to tell you about any recent changes that may apply to your area or state. Local hazardous materials response units are an excellent source of information.

4) If your state has no regulation, be certain to dispose of the container in a trash can that cannot be gotten into by children or rummaging can collectors. Court cases by people who are injured, by items such as pepper spray or mace, while rummaging through the garbage have been know to happen.

Q: Recently a neighboring community created a program to register beer kegs. This is a fine idea in this area (college town w/underage drinking concerns). Do you have any helpful hints on how to setup a program to register beer kegs with local distributors?

In some areas, agencies receive the deposit from the company upon the return of the keg. The funds are deposited into an evidence account pending the outcome of the case.

In other areas agencies have the kegs picked up by the manufacturer. A copy of the pickup receipt is held in the file showing the keg is released. It is up to the citizen to work out the details with the manufacturer.

As far as registering beer kegs, like one would register bikes, we are not familiar with any programs at this time. However, anyone who has a good program and would like to share it - - - please send it. The staff will write it up and share it with our readers.