[Contusion]

Hey guys, I need some advice.

For my element collection, I learnt that Americium is a main componant of most smoke detectors, so, naturally, I took an old smoke detector apart and retrieved the americium. I'm just wondering if there are any precautions I should take whilst handling the sample. I don't have a large knowledge of radioactivity. The detector states that it doesn't give off more than 1.0 microcuries and I'm not sure whether or not that is a harmful amount.

Any and all advice will be appreciated.
 

[mike]

Read the msds..
Do not eat it.
Wash your hands after touching it.
Don't break open the container.
Don't inhale.
Don't incinerate.
Read about radioactivity.
Exposure can be time related too.

[constant thinker]

I think we discussed Am in smoke detectors once. It may be worth a quick search of the forums.