Let’s talk about LIGHTBULBS

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

You may have heard of or use CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs in your home. They can save you money on your electric bill and can also last longer but there are a few specifics you should know about these. What you may not know is that these bulbs contain small amounts of mercury and therefor need to be disposed of properly to protect you and your family as well as the environment. 

“CFLs should never be discarded with household trash. The environmental Protection agency recommends that consumers use local recycling options for CFLs. Contact your local government or visit epa.gov/cfl/cflrecycling to identify local recycling options”

“CFLs are made of glass and can break. be careful when removing from packaging and installing or removing from a socket. if a CFL breaks: 

• Open a window to allow the room to air out for
  5–10 minutes.
• People and pets should leave the room.
• turn off forced air heating and/or air conditioning
• collect broken glass and visible powder using stiff
  cardboard, tape or a damp paper towel.
• Place the debris in a glass jar or a plastic bag in a
  safe location outside until you can dispose of it.
• Contact your local government to find out how
  to dispose of the debris
• Continue airing out the room for several hours”

For more information on CFL bulb safety visit: http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/lightbulbsafetytips.pdf?la=en

Many cities offer hazard waste disposal. In Shaker Heights they will be collecting household hazard items including CFL’s on September 16,17,23,24 from 8:00am-4:00pm at 15600 Chagrin Blvd. 

SERVPRO of Beachwood, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights 216-464-4498….here to help!