Experts are saying that one thing we can all do to conserve energy is switch out to the curly light bulbs, but being eco-friendly is not always good for your health.

The bulbs may have their energy saving benefits but if you happen to break a bulb, those efficient fluorescent lights can turn toxic.

They may cost a bit more initially, but over time will save you money (sounds familiar). It sounds so easy that you wonder why everyone isn't doing it.

Maybe it is the mercury inside those fluorescent bulbs that give some of us pause. If you were to break one, you've just created some hazardous waste right in the comfort of your own home. A broken fluorescent bulb will immediately release mercury into the air and the initial discomfort of exposure to that mercury - dizziness and nausea - is the least of your concerns. Breathing in that stuff can cause lifelong damage to the central nervous system and should be avoided.

If you are convinced that fluorescent is the way to go, there are some ways to minimize your risk of exposure to mercury from a broken bulb. Toxicology experts say the first thing you should do if you break one is to leave the room immediately. Take the kids and the pets with you and don't come back for at least 15 minutes.

After the air has cleared, you can begin cleaning up the mess - but don't break out the vacuum cleaner. Instead, wear rubber gloves and sweep it into a plastic bag. Seal the bag and dispose of it as you would any other hazardous waste. I would assume non-broken fluorescent bulbs should be treated as hazardous waste as well. I mean, you drop it in the trash; it is going to break at some point, right?

Having said all that, I have to say that I am not convinced the energy-efficiency is worth the risk. What about you? Have you switched to fluorescent?

Non-toxic glass cleaner

Inexpensive and effective. You will be amazed at how great it works. Though it costs a little more than a penny an ounce, it's a bargain compared to any commercial cleaner.

Ingredients: Club soda, that's right just club soda, found at our local grocery store. You'll need: An 8 or 16 ounce spray bottle.

Open bottle leave over night so it will go flat. Once the soda is flat, just pour into your spray bottle.

How to Use: Just spray and wipe. Best to use a lint-free cloth. I find that a soft cotton terry cloth works best. Use on all glass, mirrors, eyeglasses, TV and more.

Other Uses: Great spot remover for cloth. Bad carpet spills, like wine, juice or tomato sauce. Use paper towel blot up spill.

Barbara Sims may be reached via wseditor@robinsonnews.com.