Pesticide Safety
by Dr. Robert Black, Consumer Horticultural Specialist

Did you know that children account for most of the cases of accidental poisoning from pesticides? About 15 percent of all pesticides sold are purchased for home use. Most cases of accidents involving pesticides occur in and around homes, and a child is most often the victim. Safe use of these materials cannot be over-stressed.

You can control pests in your home and garden - SAFELY - if you use pesticides properly. To effectively control insects and disease pests, the problem must be correctly diagnosed. There is no "wonder-chemical" that will eliminate all pests that plague you. First, identify the pest or pests to be controlled. Then, choose the safest chemical that will control the pest effectively.

Read the pesticide label and follow all directions exactly as written. Read the label every time the pesticide is used. Always be aware of cautions such as "Keep out of the reach of children". If the label says to wear protective clothing or gloves, obtain these or better yet look for a less poisonous chemical.

Use the proper pesticide at the proper time and at the recommended rate to control a specific pest. Measure the chemical accurately because minute quantities will usually control the pest. The recommended rate is all you need so don't think that twice as much pesticide will do a better job. This is how accidents occur. Work in a well ventilated area, do not spray when children are nearby or when uncovered food is in the spray area.

Never leave pesticides where children or irresponsible persons can reach them. Put the materials away as soon as the sprays have been prepared and always keep pesticides in their original containers and keep them tightly closed. Never, and I repeat, never put a pesticide in an empty food or drink container. This is cause of deaths from pesticides.

Store pesticides in a ventilated place where they can be locked up. They should not be stored under the sink or in the pantry where there is danger of their being used during food preparation. Keep pesticides out of medicine cabinets, as they could be mistaken for medical supplies.

Do not dispose of empty pesticide containers where they may be a hazard to wildlife or children. Puncture empty cans, break jars and wrap these and any bags in thick layers of newspaper and place in the trash can just before the trash is collected. They will be disposed of in a sanitary land fill where they won't contaminate water or be contacted by people.

If you are particularly sensitive to a chemical, stop using it. If you have headaches, nausea, or blurred vision or if you come in contact with a toxic material, call your physician. If you have to go to a doctor take the pesticide label with you.

If everyone will follow a few basic rules, pesticides can be used safely. Don't let a tragedy occur. Pesticides are not playthings and only you can prevent accidental pesticide poisonings.