May 19, 2008

A Warning about those new light bulbs, that more and more people are switching to. They're supposed to be a lot more energy efficient and longer-lasting than conventional bulbs, but there is a hidden danger which can be a health risk if broken open.
The Environmental Protection Agency says if the bulb is broken, it releases a powder that contains mercury.

Some of it can evaporate in the air, making it difficult to clean up.  Prolonged exposure can affect the development of fetuses, infants, and young children.  The EPA has written guidelines on how to clean up a broken bulb and the mercury. Officials recommend you open windows to ventilate the area, then scoop up the mercury using a paper or cardboard or pick it up using tape or a sticky material.  You're advised to dispose of the debris in a glass jar or plastic bags.

For more information you can log onto www.lamprecycle.org.

Bill Churchwell 3 News