How to Use Pesticides Safely and Correctly

Pesticides are formulated to control or kill structural as well as garden pests. They are sold under different brands or trade names and can either be wettable powders, liquids, fogs, fungicides, insecticides,  rodenticides, larvicides, termiticides, gels, foams, granules, baits, etc…

The list seems endless but while pesticides offer much help caution should be taken when handling them, some rules or laws govern pesticide use and we must adhere to and respect those laws to ensure the safety of Humans, Pets, Wildlife, and Beneficial insects.

Mishandling of these pesticides can contaminate our environment, including water bodies such as groundwater, lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and even air population. While many of these pesticides can be purchased off the shelf for DIY purposes, some pesticides are considered highly toxic and require a license for purchase.

Pesticide operators or technicians are highly trained to manage pest issues even though some homeowners would rather DIY those projects based on the pest and the level of infestation. Over the years there has been an awareness of taking a safer approach to control outdoor or indoor pest issues. Because of this awareness, organic pesticides were introduced to ensure the safety of humans, pets, wildlife, and beneficial insects. But when handling pesticides (organic pesticides) just as (non-organic) caution must be taken by reading, understanding, and the right application according to the manufacturer’s directions. Remember the manufacturer’s directions are the law and must be followed for safety and to control pest issues.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Pest Control

The goal of pesticides is to control pests while ensuring the safety of humans, pets, wildlife, and beneficial insects. In this guide we will take a closer look at the Dos and Don’ts of pesticides.

Practice and Maintain Good Management Practices

Before reaching for a pesticide brand, Good Management Practices should always be at the top of our list, the reason for this is whether our homes, building structures, or gardens, practicing good hygiene will lessen the chance of purchasing pesticides.  For example, keeping a clean environment through proper sanitization and cleanliness will discourage (rats, mice, flies, roaches including the German roach, fleas, ants, mosquitoes, and ticks). The same goes for our gardens, a clean garden that’s always tidy will not only look attractive but will promote healthy plants and will discourage (spider mites, mealy bugs, aphids, scales, slugs, snails, thrips, fire ants, voles, caterpillars, etc.. ) garden pests. The implementation of good management practices will save you the time and money spent bringing control to indoor and outdoor pests.

If You Must Use Pesticides

Pesticides should be the last resort and only considered based on the severity of the problem and even then always start with the least toxic first after natural means of control is no longer effective because of the level of infestation. But in the case of an infestation, it’s best to call in highly trained pest control operators who can better advise you on control measures going forward to eliminate pest issues.

Properly Identifying Pest Before Purchasing Pesticides

It is of most importance to identify the host pest because incorrect identification of pests whether indoors or outdoors will lead to the purchase of the wrong pesticide which can lead to wastage and overuse of the product seeking to bring pest issues under control that can encourage contamination. So Identifying the pest first followed by purchasing the right pesticide and applying it according to the manufacturer’s directions can and will bring complete control.

Only Purchase What You Need

Purchase only what you need, there is no use in purchasing more pesticides than is needed because store-bought pesticides may only have a limited shelf life besides becoming hazardous.

How to Transport Pesticides

• Never transport pesticides in the passenger area of the vehicle.
• Pesticides should be transported in the back of a pickup truck.
• Make sure that the container/containers are secure by strapping or tying them down to avoid container/containers from overturning when transporting.
• Livestock, feed, consumer goods, seeds, plant material, etc… should never be transported with pesticides.
• Once pesticides have been carefully unloaded never leave them unattended especially if children and pets are present.

Only Use what You Need

Only use what you need, and excess of pesticides that are left over will result in wastage and then there is the issue of where to dispose of it, In and event that this happens it is best to contact your environmental agency, your local solid waste management authority your, local Extension office or contact your local government agency for instructions and clear directions. But the goal to remember is to only use what you need.

Read and Follow the Manufacture’s Label for Safe Use

Always Remember that Safety comes First, whether dealing with a pest issue in or outdoors Always Follow the Instructions of the manufacturer’s Label. The instructions will help with the proper mixture and the right application. No matter how severe the problem avoid the temptation of adding that little extra that can become a big issue.

Allow the Pesticide to Dry before Entering the Treated Area

Whether applying pesticides indoors or outdoors always allow the treated area to dry first before allowing kids or pets back into the treated area, read the manufacturer’s label for this information. Remember Safety is Always First.

Avoid these pesticides

• Never purchase pesticides that are expired.
• Never purchase pesticides where the container is unsealed, leaking, or loose.
• Never purchase pesticides from persons who don’t have a license.
• Pesticides without an approved label on the container should not be purchased.

Pesticides for Indoor or Outdoor Use

Never use pesticides that are manufactured for outdoor use to control indoor pests, Always, Always read and understand the manufacturer’s directions on where and how to use pesticides.

Where to Mix Pesticides

• Pesticides whether mixing or diluting should always be mixed in a well-ventilated area or outdoors, under no circumstances are you to mix pesticides indoors or in an enclosed area.
• Never use the seem spoons or measuring cups in your kitchen to mix pesticides that can prove fatal.

Where to Sore Pesticides

The Cover or Cap of Pesticides should be Tightly Seal and placed in a Cool Ventilated Area and kept FAR, FAR, FAR Out of the REACH of CHILDREN and PETS, Remember SAFETY FIRST!!

Safety First/Wear Your PPE

PPE- always wear your personal protection equipment which includes a disposal pesticide suit or a long pair of pants along with a long-sleeved shirt. A hat,  a strong pair of gloves especially those provided for pesticide use, a respirator, socks, a good pair of strong boots, and eye goggles. Once the job is complete, if you’re wearing a disposable suit place the suit in a trash bag and seal it tightly.  The trash bag should be placed in your garbage container outdoors. Ensure that the container has tightly fitted lids so that kids and animals can not access it. If wearing a pants and shirt then wash pants and shirt including soaks separately from other laundry.

If a Spill Occurs

If a spill occurs Don’t wash it away but quickly clean it up by sprinkling the spill with sawdust, kitty litter, or vermiculite. Next, sweep it up in a plastic garbage bag and dispose of it as directed on the pesticide product label or the manufacturer’s directions. Any material that is used to clean up pesticides is considered contaminated and must be handled as pesticide waste.

First-Aid Instructions

Before using pesticides familiarize yourself with First Aid information, if an accident occurs seek medical attention right away.

About the Manufacture

The manufacturer knows all about their product therefore before applying the product for garden or home use read the entire label and follow the directions for correct and safe use. The label will also tell you about the toxicity level For example.

• DANGEROUS POISON – is an indication that the product is highly toxic.
• POISON –  is an indication the product is moderately toxic
• CAUTION – is an indication of low toxicity

How to Apply Pesticides

• Only use pesticides for listed purposes according to the manufacturer’s label.
• Don’t apply pesticides if rain is forecast because pesticides will get washed away leading to wastage and must be reapplied.
• Don’t Apply pesticides when it’s windy because pesticides will drift off making contact with humans, pests, wildlife, and beneficial insects including pollinators.
• Kids and pests should never have access to or be allowed to be in the area you choose to mix pesticides which can prove fatal. Ensure to keep kids and pets away.

How Store Pesticides Safely

• Pesticides should always be kept in the original container.
• Always Have a clear warning sign for others to see where pesticides are stored.
• The storage area should always be well-ventilated, dry, and cool away from heat and sunlight.
• Make sure that kids and pets have no access to the area where the pesticides are stored.

Additional Information Must Read

• Don’t eat, drink, or smoke while applying pesticides.
• Don’t dispose of pesticides down the drain, sink, or toilet.
• Don’t Store pesticides near foods and drinks
• Never use the seam spray tank for pesticides and herbicides.
• Once your spraying task is completed wash your sprayer out with clean water and detergent.
• Once the pesticide container is empty Triple-rinse the container, punch multiple holes in the empty container so it won’t be used again. To recycle the container contact your local Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection facility for dates and and locations.
• Always read the label before application to find out the toxicity level which is very important.

Conclusion

Care and caution should always be taken when using pesticides whether organic or non-organic, remember pesticide has active ingredients that take down the host pest. If these active ingredients come in contact with humans or pets can cause some negative reactions.  While the goal is to create a pest-free zone let’s do so in a safe manner that will give us the results we’re seeking. Remember the aim is for these pesticides to only come in contact with rodents or insect pests.