Sometimes it is necessary to use a pesticide to control garden and lawn pests. When purchasing a pesticide make sure you are buying the product that will best suit your needs. Read the directions, cautions and other information “Before” you buy the product.
When you get the product home be very careful on where you store the bottle. Make sure to keep it in the container it came in. Protect the label. Do not store the product where the packaging may become worn and destroyed.
If you have small children consider storing your pesticides in a cabinet that can be locked. Make sure no food items, pet food, etc. can come in contact with the pesticide. Do not store in wet or damp areas. Make sure the area in which you store the product has temperature control so it will not freeze in the winter or get too hot in the summer.
If you should have to store pesticides in another container do not choose a breakable container. Use thick plastic containers. Always clearly label the outside with CAUTION. Mark with the name of the product and expiration date along with any important instructions that you may need for future reference.
Remember most pesticides are flammable so be aware of using the product around any heat sources and sparks.
As with any product follow the label precautions carefully. If the product needs to be prepared and applied a certain way follow it. A method other than what is directed may make for a dangerous situation.
If the pesticide is a spray be very cautious and wear a respirator. Do not use around people who have asthma or other lung conditions. Avoid using around elderly and small children. In most cases you should protect your skin as well. You should wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Heavy rubber boots and gloves should be worn. Protect your eyes with a pair of wrap around goggles.
Wash all exposed clothing separately from other laundry. Hot water and a heavy duty detergent should be used. After the clothes are washed, hang outside to dry instead of using your clothes dryer. Run at least two empty loads again through your washer to remove the chemical residue.
If the pesticide you have used is no longer needed give it to someone else to use. If not take the remainder of the pesticide to a licensed waste handler to be disposed of properly. Never burn, bury or pour pesticides down a drain. This can pollute areas and if spread to your water supply you could have serious health risks.
Protecting yourself is key when handling pesticides. They are dangerous chemicals. Never mix two pesticides together. Use common sense and follow directions. Protect yourself with proper clothing and be cautious with the surrounding areas in which the chemical is to be used on.
