Pesticides, Safety and You

 

When using any pesticide, read and follow all label directions. The companies that make pesticides have put a great deal of effort into determining the best ways to use their products, just how much to use and how to mix and apply it to get the best results. One of the reasons they do all this research is so that you will be satisfied with their product and want to use it again. Pests are insects, weeds, disease pathogens, nematodes, bacteria and even vertebrate pests such as squirrels, skunks and raccoons. So it follows that a pesticide can be an insecticide, herbicide and fungicide.

Here is what you should look for on the label. Is the pest you need to control listed on the label and where to apply it.  Ready-to-use product such as a dust or granule may be used as it is. A liquid concentrate must be mixed with water and sprayed; the correct amount is given that will do the job without danger to you. Personal protective clothing or equipment maybe required. If it requires a face mask, rubber gloves and chemical resistant clothing it is better to leave it on the shelf and find something safer. All pesticide labels will require long pants, long-sleeve shirts, shoes and socks. There is new section required on pesticide labels that brings attention to the protection of honey bees and other pollinators. Take time to read this as so much of our food supply depends on the bees.

Randy Bilesky  Go Green Pest Control: Serving Delta, Surrey and White Rock

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