Broken fish thermometer

Question
I accidentally broke my fish thermometer (not inside the tank).  Does it contain mercury?  Some blogs I read said that if the line is red it means it's alcohol based.  Also what are the little black balls on the bottom of it? weights?

Answer
Hi Alex,

It contains mercury if it has little balls at the bottom.  They are mercury.  It has to be removed, all of it.  It's not only toxic to the fish, but it's very toxic to you.  If you stick your hand into the water, you are absorbing the mercury.  Mercury is one metal which never comes out of our bodies once it's in.  Some passes through blood, but the majority rests internally.  Built up, it causes insanity and death.

Not a joke.

Happy fish-keeping and I certainly hope you write back if you have any further questions.

Renee