Take special precautions working with pesticides

Inspector Pickens

By Michael Pickens

This week, I will discuss using safety when working with pesticides around your home.

Pesticides are commonly believed to only control insects but this is not exactly true. Pesticides include products that kill or repel pests. Pest are not just insects but include certain animals, weeds, molds, mildews and bacteria. Believe it or not, products used as disinfectants, insect foggers, toilet cleaners and even flea collars are all considered pesticides. Pesticides have the ability to help us live better by protecting our health, beautifying our lawns and keeping our homes clean. Unfortunately, they can be dangerous if used or handled carelessly. The American Association of Poison Control Center reports that there are more than 20,000 cases of pesticide poisoning annually. While the majority of these cases are minor, some do require medical assistance.

When handling pesticides, remember that they are poisonous and therefore pose a risk to some degree. Most products are intended for use in around the home and most are formulated in low dose concentrations. The same active ingredients that are in many home and garden pesticides can also be available in stronger concentrations for agricultural and industrious applications. Most of these formulas are not intended or listed for home use and it is illegal to use them in that manner. If you find that you have a serious pest problem, it is probably best to consult a professional pest controller who has the correct equipment and training to handle your specific problem.

The majority of products intended for use around the home require no additional mixing for liquids. If your product requires the addition of water, most often the label will give the information on what percentage of concentration is needed to achieve the proper dosage prior to application. Many people prescribe to the idea that if a little is good then more is better. Avoid this desire when applying pesticides because heavier applications can have unintended consequences. Over applying pesticides can have a negative impact on the environment, such as runoff into groundwater, residue buildup and harm to beneficial organisms.

When working with pesticides, remember that they can enter your body in a number of avenues. Oral ingestion, inhalation and absorption through the skin are all common methods of entry into the human body. When applying your product, be sure to follow all safety procedures as recommended by the manufacturer. Chemical resistant gloves, long pants and shirts, goggles and masks can all be safety devices that are recommended. When you have completed your pesticide use, it is imperative that you wash any reusable equipment. Wash any clothing, but not with your normal laundry loads, and bathe thoroughly.

Avoid using your pesticides under windy conditions or if significant rainfall is imminent. These type of conditions can cause the movement of pesticides to areas that you never intended to have covered.

There are a number of options available for disposing of unwanted pesticides. Pouring them down drains, toilets or sewer systems are never options. Once a pesticide has been fully used. Ensure that it has been completely cleaned out. Do not rinse containers in a household sink. If your pesticide came in a bag, completely shake the contents onto the worksite. You should never use a pesticide container to store anything else-period.

For the safety of children, pets and wildlife:

• Remove children's clothing and toys from area of application.
• Remove or cover pet food and water dishes.
• Never place any baits in the reach of children, pets or wildlife.

If you or someone know has been exposed to pesticides and exhibits dizziness, headaches or nausea, obtain medical assistance immediately. Take no chances and take the pesticide label with you during treatment. The information on the label will help the medical staff determine what is the best course of treatment.

Be careful, be safe.

Michael Pickens is a licensed home inspector and owner of MD Home Inspection, located in Fort Wayne and serving the northern portion of Indiana. He received his training at the Real Estate Certification Program in Indianapolis. In addition to being a licensed home inspector, Pickens is also an experienced carpenter. If you have any questions or comments, Mr. Pickens can be reached at (260) 715- 5199 or e-mail him at MDHI4@yahoo.com.

This is part of the July 22, 2009 online edition of Frost Illustrated.

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