Bob wrote:
When a
bulb breaks and leaves the base in the socket, use another bulb. Push
the bulb base into the broken base and keep pressure on it while
unscrewing.

Wow - sounds like a great idea. Kind of like pliers, except with a
fragile glass handle that's harder to control, and no real grip or
leverage on the old base! You probably shouldn't wear gloves, because
they could keep you from feeling your progress, and you probably
wouldn't want safety glasses either, because they could interfere with
your vision. And be sure to stand on a rocking chair or a swivel stool
to reach the broken bulb. Don't bother turning off the breaker,
either, because who wants to walk all the way down to the basement?
Sheesh.