If you are like most people, when reading a label on the back of a pesticide bottle, your mind goes blank and you become trigger happy—anything to get rid of those little pests.

Using pesticides safely

• Always read the label carefully and follow instructions on handling, use and storage to the letter.
• Apply pesticides on a dry, calm day with moderate temperature and low humidity
• Always keep children and pets away from pesticides while they are being applied and until they have dried or settled completely
• Cover as much of your skin as possible. Wear rubber gloves, a long sleeved shirt and pants, eye protection, and mask. Avoid touching your eyes and face.
• Are you still with me–never eat, drink, or smoke while handling pesticides. Avoid inhaling powders and sprays.
• Don’t allow pesticides to contaminate ponds, streams, or swimming pools,
• Don’t apply a pesticide to food crops when label states that it is not safe to do so.
• Clean all equipment carefully after application. Wash your hands and face thoroughly with soap. Launder clothing separately.
• Keep pesticides in their original packaging and store them in a secure dry, cool place.
• Never empty any leftover pesticides down drains or in gutters.
• Repeat applications as needed and as indicated on product label.

After all that…do you still want to use a pesticide? If not, read more… Homemade Pest Controllers!