Residents across Campbell River and the Comox Valley are being encouraged to plan ahead for the responsible disposal of their jack-o’-lanterns after Halloween.

Households receiving municipal curbside organics collection in Campbell River, Courtenay, Comox and Cumberland can place unwanted pumpkins inside their organics carts.

Pumpkins should not be left loose at the curb. Residents must also remove candles, wax, stickers, plastic, glitter and any other non-organic decorations before placing them in a cart.

Composting keeps pumpkins out of the landfill and allows the organic material to be turned into a useful soil product.

Campbell River residents also have a more dramatic disposal option this weekend.

The Campbell River Fire Department’s annual Pumpkin Smash will be held Sunday, November 1, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the lower parking lot of the Willow Point Sportsplex.

For a cash or credit donation, residents can watch firefighters drop their pumpkins from the department’s 101-foot tower truck.

Pumpkins brought to the event must be cleaned of all non-organic materials. The remains will be collected and turned into compost following the event.

Proceeds will benefit the BC Professional Firefighters Burn Fund and other local charities.