How To Protect Health When Using Pesticides

Here’s a truth – most commercial pesticides are harmful to your health. A pesticide can have different components, including insecticides that are used to kill insects and fungicides to eliminate fungus. Some also contain herbicides that are used to eliminate weeds. Because these substances are used to kill several kinds of living things, it is not surprising that such chemicals also endanger the health of humans. However, even though these are dangerous, you need pesticides to control your pest problems. To keep safe, it’s important to always follow safety instructions and to be aware of potential risks when using pesticides so that you will be able to better protect yourself and your family.

1. Use the appropriate product.

Determine what sort of pest problem you have and know the extent of an infestation. By doing so, you’ll become aware of what sort of chemicals you need. When using any form of pesticide, you have to do your research first to determine risks. Also, only use a pesticide that is designed for the insect or creature that you want to eliminate to lower other hazards. In addition, understand what actions you need to take. For instance, you might only need to control the population instead of employing techniques that will totally eradicate a certain kind of insect in your area. Remember that insects, though they can cause serious damage to property, play a part in keeping ecosystems balanced.

2. Protect yourself properly.

Bug sprays are the most common types of pesticides readily available for public use. When using, always follow safety instructions which are usually written at the back of a product. Wear a mask when spraying to avoid inhaling noxious fumes. If you need to handle pesticides in powder or liquid form, use gloves and protective clothing apart from a mask. Keep children away from areas that are going to be treated. More importantly, if you’re pregnant, avoid pesticides in any form. Let someone else do the application for you and stay away from places that have been treated.

3. Use less powerful products or non-chemical pesticides if possible.

All chemical pesticides are potentially dangerous, which is why you should seriously consider using less powerful products in order to reduce the risks. Some non-chemical pesticides are also fairly safe to people and to the environment as well.

4. Keep pesticides out of reach of children.

Many accidents happen when kids play with dangerous chemicals. To eliminate such possibilities, keep pesticides in locked cabinets or store these in a locked shed that’s far from your main home. Also, be aware that some pesticides have expiration dates. These can also deteriorate if exposed to the elements. So, be sure to store them as recommended by manufacturers.

5. Implement safety measures.

This includes washing hands thoroughly or showering after using or getting exposed to chemicals. It is also important to avoid eating or drinking in treated areas or near dangerous chemicals to prevent accidental contact.