Tracy King of Lawrence
To the editor:
“Sustainable Lawrence” is my absolute favorite part of your paper, and the actionable tips go way beyond the basic advice available in most other outlets. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are frequently recommended, but I think this advice should be accompanied by some very important information.
CFL’s contain mercury, which can be released into your home environment if the bulbs are broken. This is dangerous and must be avoided if possible. As the parent of four young children, I do not use CFL’s in tabletop and floor lamps in the rooms where the children play.
If a bulb is broken anywhere in your home, immediately throw an old, wet washcloth over the spill, open all the windows in the room, and go to http://www.epa.gov/mercury/spills/index.htm#fluorescent. There, you will find specific instructions of what to do and what not to do.
When a bulb burns out, do not dispose of it in the regular trash. Recycle used bulbs like other hazardous waste. According to the EPA Web-site, “Carefully recycling CFLs prevents the release of mercury into the environment and allows for the reuse of glass, metals and other materials that make up fluorescent lights.” Protects the environment and also protect your regular garbage collector from being exposed to mercury vapors.
One final thing to note: extend the life of your CFL’s by following usage instructions on the package. Be safe.
Tracy King
Lawrence

