If a mercury thermometer breaks, immediately open windows and doors to ventilate the area. Do not use a vacuum cleaner or broom to clean up, as this can spread the mercury. Use rubber gloves and cardboard or sticky tape to carefully pick up the visible mercury beads and place them in a sealable container. If possible, sprinkle sulfur powder over the area where the mercury was spilled as it can react with mercury and make it easier to clean up. Dispose of the container properly according to local regulations. ????
