Pepper spray presents a risk for sanitation workers and waste facilities. If there’s even a drop of liquid left inside of an aerosol canister, it is still pressurized and can explode, so dispose of it as hazardous waste.

If your pepper spray is leaking, put it in a plastic container with a tight, secure lid, then dispose of it as hazardous waste. While transporting, keep the pepper spray in a well-ventilated area.

Find a place where no one is nearby and the wind won’t carry the spray to nearby homes or yards. Wear protective eyewear. Then stand upwind and spray downwind so you won’t harm yourself, or spray directly into the ground.

Once you’ve completely emptied the pepper spray container, you can place it in the garbage.

If pepper spray gets on your clothing, remove it while avoiding touching your face, cutting off your shirt if necessary. Then wash your hands and any other affected areas with soap and cool water.