OC Residents Safely Dispose of Expired Marine Flares – Free Drop-Off August 16

Do you have old or expired marine flares at home? Don’t toss them in the trash—dispose of them safely and legally at a free collection event hosted by OC Waste & Recycling on Saturday, August 16, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Dana Point Harbor. This one-day, drive-through event offers all Orange County residents a convenient way to get rid of expired signal devices. Staff will collect items directly from your trunk—just load and go.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, August 16
Time: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Dana Point Harbor – 24650 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
Drop-Off Details: Drive-through collection event – stay in your vehicle

✅ Accepted Items:

• Hand-held marine flares
• Aerial flares
• Smoke signals

🚫 Not Accepted:

• Military-grade or electronic flares
• Roadside emergency flares
• Household hazardous waste (paint, oil, e-waste)

Why It Matters

Marine flares contain hazardous materials and are considered explosives. They cannot be thrown away or recycled and must be handled with care. This event provides a safe, no-cost option to help protect your family, community, and the environment. Boat owners are encouraged to participate in this convenient public service event as part of their summer boating season checklist. 

OC Healthcare Agency will be onsite, providing information on the free Bilge Pad Exchange program.  US Coast Guard Auxiliary (Partner Dockwalkers) will hand out free CA Boater Kits, boating safety info, and E-flare discount coupons (while supplies last).