Customer LoginIt’s summer and you want to be outside but those pesky bugs are keeping you indoors. Many people try to get rid of everyday pests by using a pesticides in their yard. These chemicals can be dangerous if not used exactly as directed. Here are a few tips on using pesticides.
Pesticide Selection
- Whether it is an insect, weed to be controlled, proper identification is critical for proper product selection.
- Buy the least toxic product labeled for what you are looking to remove.
- Buy only the amount to be used immediately, rather than storing quantities of product.
- For insects and rodents, bait stations can be safe and effective alternatives to pesticide.
Pesticide Label Requirements
- Prior to beginning use of any product, completely read the label directions.
- Follow all directions exactly as labeled, paying particular attention to precautions and restrictions.
- It is illegal to use a pesticide in a manner or location not specified on the label.
Pesticide Handling
- Limit exposure to pesticides by wearing long-sleeves shirts and long pants. Goggles and masks may also be worn for further safety, and must be worn if specified on the product label.
- To prevent environmental contamination, dispose of all product properly, as specified on the label and by federal, state and local ordinance. Do not dispose of pesticide by pouring it down the drain, into the trash or on the lawn.
Applying Pesticides
- Carefully reading all label directions and safety precautions.
- Ensure children and pets are away from the area. Remove any child or pet toys.
- When applying indoors, cover food-contact surfaces; cover or remove foods from the area.
- Keep children and pets away until finished and the product is dried or label specifications are fulfilled.
- Use products only for pests that are identified on the label. Do not use a pesticide that is unspecified just because you happen to have the product on hand.
- Use only the amount specified on the label. More pesticide does not equal more kill.
- Check the weather prior to applying pesticide outside. To keep pesticide from drifting, running into, or otherwise affecting non-target areas, do not spray pesticides on rainy or windy days.
- Use product only when and as necessary; avoid using pesticides as frequent preventive control. It’s recommended that homeowners keep a record of pesticide applications to include date, time and the pesticide brand name. Such records can be important in the case of an alleged poisoning or damage.
- Change clothes and wash hands after any applying any pesticides.
Storing Pesticides
- To prevent unauthorized or unsupervised use, keep pesticides in a locked area if possible, or in a high, secure area if not.
- Always store pesticides, as well as baits and traps, out of the reach of children and pets.
- To further protect children, ensure other adults and caretakers in the home know the location and hazards of the pesticides.
- Keep pesticides in the original containers as much as possible. Never transfer to a container that may appear to be food or drink.
- Ensure the area is well-lit, well-ventilated, and protected from weather.
When any pesticide is purchased, handled, applied or store, follow all safety precautions. Be sure to have the phone number for poison control nearby: 1-800-222-1222.
Article Source:
http://pestcontrol.about.com/od/pestcontrolsafety/a/Five-Guides-For-Pesticide-Use.htm
