FAQs
1.	Q.	Do compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) contain mercury?
	A.	Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing—an average of 5 milligrams—about the amount that would cover the tip of a ball-point pen. By comparison, older thermometers contain about 500 milligrams of mercury. It would take 100 CFLs to equal that amount.   Mercury currently is an essential component of CFLs and is what allows the bulb to be an efficient light source. No mercury is released when the bulbs are intact or in use.
2.	Q.	What precautions should I take when using CFLs in my home?
	A.	CFLs are made of glass and can break if dropped or roughly handled. Be careful when removing the bulb from its packaging, installing or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base (not the glass), and never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket. If a CFL breaks in your home, follow the clean-up and disposal recommendations below.
3.	Q.	How can I properly dispose of a CFL?
	A.	The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that consumers take advantage of available local recycling options for compact fluorescent light bulbs. The EPA is working with CFL manufacturers and major U.S. retailers to expand recycling and disposal options.   Consumers can contact their local municipal solid waste agency directly, or go to www.lamprecycle.org or www.earth911.org to identify local recycling options.
4.	Q.	What should I do if a CFL breaks?
	A.	If a CFL bulb should break in your home, follow the clean-up guidelines provided by the EPA.