The bulbs are toxic if broken

BOISE -- We've been hearing both at the state and national level about how we should be switching to those energy efficient light bulbs, which manufacturers say can save you money, in addition to helping the environment.

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.

“Well, we have a lot of hazardous waste,” said Dave Neal.

As the director of Waste Management for Ada County, Dave Neal knows a thing or two about toxic trash.

“We have a lot of paints, a lot of solvents, a lot of poisons and material of that type,” said Neal.

That's why he's very cautious when handling this household item, commonly thought to be nothing more than an attempt to "go green."

“You really don't wanna break these,” said Neal.

These lights are energy efficient bulbs.  They use fluorescent lighting and consume far less energy than a standard incandescent bulb.  But they also contain the toxic element - mercury.

If the bulb is broken, mercury is released and can enter your system in a matter of seconds.

“You can get dizzy, you can feel nauseous,” said Kai Elgethun.

State toxicologist, Kai Elguthen, says those minor symptoms are the least of your worries if you've been exposed.

“The biggest concern with mercury is potential effects on the nervous system,” said Elgethun.

To avoid life long health effects, toxicology experts say if you break an energy efficient bulb, leave the room and stay out for at least 15 minutes to let the air clear.

Don't vacuum the mess up, that air could spread toxic mercury droplets all around your home.

Instead using rubber gloves, sweep up the mess, put it in a plastic bag and take it to be disposed as hazardous waste.        

“They're very toxic and people need to be aware that they give off a kind of a warm glow, but they can be very dangerous to your health if handled improperly,” said Neal.

State officials say eco-friendly bulbs are a catch 22 -- good for the environment, but potentially bad for you.