The Policy: Unwanted explosives, fireworks, and ammunition are NOT accepted at any SWAC Town Transfer Station or Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection event. This safety mandate applies to all residents, businesses, and organizations within our member towns. These items are strictly banned from the landfill because they pose an extreme danger to waste workers, transport equipment, and the general public.

Critical Safety Protocols:

  • Consult Experts Before Handling: Please do not transport or move any dangerous explosives (including old flares, commercial-grade fireworks, or crystallized materials) without first consulting law enforcement.

  • Contact Local Law Enforcement: For guidance on proper disposal, please contact your local police department or town constable.

  • Vermont State Police Support: If your town does not have a local department, contact the Vermont State Police (Rutland Barracks) at (802) 773-9101.

  • Institutional/Commercial Generators: Organizations or businesses with specialized explosives or large quantities of ammunition should coordinate directly with the State Police Explosives Unit for a safe “render-safe” procedure.

Ammunition & “Spent” Fireworks:

  • Ammunition: Unwanted civilian ammunition should be discharged safely or may be accepted at local gun shops. Never place live ammunition in trash or recycling containers.

  • The “After-Party”: Casings or wrappers from fully exploded fireworks can be placed in the trash only after they have been thoroughly soaked in water and are completely cool to the touch.

⚠️ Public Safety Alert

  • The Compaction Risk: Trash trucks and transfer stations use high-pressure hydraulic compactors. If a live round of ammunition or a firework is in that load, the pressure can trigger a fire or explosion inside the machinery, endangering the operator and anyone nearby.

  • Deteriorating Hazards: Older explosives and fireworks often become more sensitive over time. If you find old materials that look “crusty,” leaking, or crystallized, do not touch them. Even the slight friction of moving them can be enough to trigger a reaction.

  • The “Soak” Requirement: For dud fireworks that failed to ignite, always soak them in a bucket of water for at least 24 hours before further handling. This ensures the fuse is completely neutralized.