Insect and Mite Control on Woody Ornamentals and Herbaceous Perennials

Bulletin 504

How to Protect Yourself when Using Pesticides

Many pest problems cannot be solved without using pesticides. These materials are poisons and must be used accordingly. If we must use pesticides, let's acquaint ourselves with some general precautions which will help us to use them safely.

General Precautions

1. Read the label. This is the first rule of safety in using any pesticide - read the label and follow the directions and precautions printed on it.
2. Store pesticides in closed, well-labeled containers where children or pets cannot reach them. Do not store them under the sink, in the pantry, or in the medicine cabinet. Do not store them near food of any kind.
3. Store application equipment as you do pesticides - out of the reach of children or pets.
4. Do not save or reuse empty pesticide containers. Dispose of containers promptly as directed on the label.
5. Do not apply more pesticide than the label recommends. Overdosage is wasteful and may be dangerous.
6. If you use poisoned bait to control rats, mice, or other pests, either indoors or outdoors, place it where children or pets cannot find it.
7. When opening a container of liquid pesticide, keep your face away from, and to one side of, the cap or lid.
8. Mix or prepare dusts or sprays outdoors or in a well-ventilated room.
9. In handling any pesticide, avoid contact with the skin. Do not get pesticide near your mouth, eyes, or nose.
10. If pesticide gets in your eyes, flush the eyes with water for 5 minutes; get medical attention.
11. Never smoke, eat, or drink while handling a pesticide. After finishing the work, wash exposed skin surfaces with soap and water.
12. If you spill pesticide on your clothing, launder the clothing before wearing it again.
13. If you become ill during or shortly after using a pesticide, call a physician immediately. From the container label, read to him the names of the active chemical ingredients; follow his instructions for first-aid treatment.
14. Poison information centers are located throughout the state and are on call 24 hours a day. In an emergency, you could call the center closest to you, but it is preferable to let your doctor consult the center. Most telephone 911 systems can contact poison information centers directly.

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