Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) have been in existence for a long time now.  As the name indicates, these bulbs are more effective as compared to an ordinary bulb in terms of power consumption and ultimately the electricity bill. 

CFLs and other fluorescent light bulbs come in different shapes on the market with different ratings in terms of voltage or watts and they will definitely save our pockets especially that, we are buying electricity in our respective homes/businesses.  However, these types of bulbs, if broken, can cause serious danger. That’s because they contain a small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing.  Mercury is a potent neurotoxin, and it's especially dangerous for children and fetuses. It is more poisonous than lead or arsenic.  Exposure to mercury/mercury dust can cause migraines, disorientation, imbalances and other health problems when inhaled. It causes many people with allergies, severe skin conditions and other diseases just by touching or inhaling the substance.

Below is the advice on what to do if a low-energy (CFL) bulb breaks:

1. Evacuate the room. Air out the room for 15 minutes by opening a window or door to the outdoor environment.  Take care not to step on the shards of glass littering the floor. 
2. Do not use a vacuum cleaner to clear up the mess.  The machine, when used again, could spread the contamination to other rooms.
3. Put on rubber gloves and sweep the debris onto the dustpan.
4. Place the remains in a plastic bag and seal it.
5. Do NOT put the plastic in a normal household bin.
6. Instead, place it in a municipal recycling bin for batteries which also contain mercury or take it to a council dump where it can be disposed of safely.
7. Try not to inhale dust from the broken bulb.

For more information, visit http://www.epa.gov/mercury/spills/