Tips on Changing Bulbs

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Look at the light that is currently in the socket to see what shape and size it is. The wattage will usually be a displayed on a wattage indicator sticker near the bulb socket. This is probably a better resource to use when deciding which wattage bulb to choose. Someone might already have placed the wrong bulb in your socket!
Go to the store and buy the same watt bulb that you currently are using.
Make sure you turn the switch off.
Unscrew the burnt out bulb and dispose of it properly.
Screw in the new bulb. Do not over-tighten or press on the bulb too hard.
Turn on the light switch to make sure the bulb works.

Use extreme caution when working with glass because it can get very hot.
Try to replace your light bulbs with energy efficient lights such as fluorescent replacement bulbs.
An easy way to remember which way to turn the bulb is this little rhyme: Righty tighty, lefty loosey.
To make your incandescent bulbs last longer, install them while wearing gloves or fabric over your hands. This prevents the oils on your hands from getting onto the bulb, which may later form "hot spots" and weaken the glass.

Make sure the switch is off first. If not, you risk being shocked.
If a bulb has just gone out, it may be hot! Do a few quick touches with the tip of your finger to determine whether it is cool enough to handle.
If you must replace a bulb before it can cool, use a potholder, or paper towel to insulate your hands.
If the bulb has broken, you may be able to force a carrot, or potato onto the broken part in order to unscrew from there.
When putting in compact fluorescent bulbs, always grip the plastic base to screw in. The tubing can easily snap if it is twisted.
Do not install a bulb that is larger than the recommended power rating on the fixture's label. This will cause a fire hazard! If in doubt use a smaller rather than a larger wattage.
Some compact fluorescent bulbs have very fragile twisted glass tubes. Grasp them by the plastic base when screwing and unscrewing to avoid breakage.