When the need arises to protect your home from intruding pests, not everyone calls in a professional exterminator. Many people prefer to buy and use over-the-counter pesticides themselves. These chemicals can be useful, but they can also carry health risks. Arrow Exterminators has put together a list of how to safely use home pesticides so that the benefits outweigh the possible harm:
- When buying pesticides, always check the labels. They’re labeled according to their level of risk: “danger,” “warning,” and “caution.” Look for pesticides with the “caution” label as that’s the one associated with the least amount of risk.
- Extremely important information regarding the pesticide is found on the product’s label. Always read the entire label and follow the directions exactly.
- Buy and use only the amount of pesticide that you need and get rid of anything leftover. Leaving extra pesticides around the house can be hazardous to pets and children.
- Never dump leftover pesticides in the trash, down the drain, or into storm drains or sewers. You can either offer excess pesticides to other family members and friends to use or take them to your local hazardous waste disposal facility.
- Minimize pesticide exposure to everyone in your family. Make sure your children and your pets are out of the way when using pesticides. When spraying indoors, it’s a good idea to pack everyone up and take them for an outing that lasts the entire day.
- Be mindful of where you’re spraying. Make sure that toys, food, or any other personal items that could be handled within a few days of spraying are picked up and out of the way before you begin. If spraying outdoors, make sure it isn’t a windy day.
- Protect your skin by wearing gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, pants and shoes when spraying. Immediately clean up afterwards by changing your clothing and washing your hands. It’s a good time to hit the shower.
Pesticides are dangerous chemicals, so don’t use them unless you absolutely have to. Keep in mind that there are alternatives, like natural pest control methods, and you can always contact the experts at Arrow Exterminators to get the job done safely.
