Promoting Environmental Awareness for Community Health (PEACH)

Promoting Environmental Awareness for Community Health (PEACH)

Pesticide Safety

• Pesticides are a diverse group of chemicals that are used in a variety of ways. They are often used: in your home, in your garden, on your pets.

• Pesticides are used to control: weeds, fungi, insects, rodents.

• Some pesticides are: sprays, powders, solids.

• Some are sold ready to use, while others require mixing.

• The level of harm can vary: Caution- Warning- Danger Poison! Some are more dangerous than others.

• Because these substances can be dangerous, it's important to store them safely.

• Keep them in their original containers out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of pesticides properly. Don't pour them down toilets, sinks, or sewers.
• Health departments can give recommendations on how to dispose of pesticides safely.
• Some pesticides that were used in the past can persist in the environment for a long time, sometimes decades.
• They can contaminate nearby areas, sometimes after floods or when the soil is disturbed.

• Pesticides can cause health effects, which can show up immediately or over a long period of time: nausea, headache, watery eyes, dizziness.

• Some symptoms are irritating, while others are more severe.

• Some pesticides can increase the risk of certain childhood cancers, such as leukemia.

• Integrated pest management is a set of strategies to keep your family safe while preventing pests.

• Preventive actions can limit the need for pesticides: close windows, keep floors clean, remove trash and place in a sealed bin, keep food covered.

• If you do need to use pesticides, consider hiring a professional, who has the right equipment and skills.

• If you use pesticides yourself, read all the information on the label and follow all the instructions: how to use, how much to use, where to use.

• Do not use pesticides that are expired or pesticides with labels you cannot clearly read.
• Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Visit www.atsdr.cdc.gov for more information.