There are two types of mercury that pollute our environment. Methyl Mercury is more hazardous to humans and other animals than elemental mercury. The sources of methyl mercury are unknown. It is believed that methyl mercury is the result of bacteria that modifies elemental mercury and escapes from landfills into the air.

Elemental mercury, found in urban storm water sediment is the result of fluorescent light, electrical switches, thermometers and other mercury containing devices that are not disposed of properly.

Mercury is very dangerous to humans. The vapors from Mercury affects the nervous system. The lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes are all affected by Mercury. Mercury can have disastrous effects on fetuses and affect child development.

Mercury is used is a wide variety of applications. Some of the most common places where Mercury is found includes:

* Light switches (Mercury conducts electricity)
* Paints. (Mercury gives paint its color)
* Thermometers
* Remote batteries. (Mercury is used to store energy in batteries)

Mercury is a dangerous element for human to breathe. The problem is that Mercury scatters very easily and the vapors are colorless and odorless. Exposure can occur without anyone being aware of the danger. Exposure can occur when thermometers or fluorescent bulbs are broken.

When Mercury vapors are inhaled, Only 7 percent of the absorbed mercury is exhaled from the body. The balance of the Mercury is absorbed into the body causing irreparable damage.

Mercury Spill Kits are the best defense against mercury vapors. These kits are designed to contain all of the necessary equipment to contain, clean and dispose of a mercury spill. Designed for smaller spills, this kit includes vapor suppressors, a mercury aspirator, personal protective equipment, and mercury disposal containers and an instruction booklet. The mercury spill kit is portable, durable, and requires no mixing.

To quickly and effectively contain a Mercury Spill do the following:

* Use personal protective equipment gear before starting a cleanup. Protective gear includes gloves made of polyethylene or nitrile rubber, splash goggles and chemically resistant aprons should be worn when working with or around mercury.

* Use a Mercury monitor to determine mercury levels in the air.

* Check Mercury levels before, during and after cleanup.

* Mercury should be scooped together. Pick Mercury up with a syringe, pump tube or scoop.

* Put Mercury into a closed container to eliminate further emissions.

* Use sponges or powders to pick up any mercury that is left. and help suppress vapors.

* Sweep the entire area with a special vacuum - Do Not use a regular vacuum

* After cleanup test for emissions to ensure all of the mercury has been removed.

* Waste containers with sealable lids must be used. Containers must be labeled appropriately for proper handling

It is almost impossible to have no exposure to Mercury because it is almost a staple in our air. However in close quarters when a Mercury spill occurs, the amount of Mercury vapors is extremely dangerous. Taking quick effective action using a self contained Mercury Spill Kit will curtail the amount of vapors and environmental damage.