About Chemical Pesticides

There are more than 1400 kinds of pesticides in the US. Some are meant to be used only by licensed pest control experts while others are considered general use products safe enough to be used by untrained citizens. Pesticides aren't as evil as some people claim (after all, they're used in just about everything we grow and to kill disease carriers like mosquitoes), though virtually every type of pesticide is toxic and should be handled carefully.

There are five categories of pesticides: chlorinated hydrocarbons, organophosphates, botanicals, carbamates, and inorganic compounds. Within each group, the pesticides range from deadly to fairly safe for humans, assuming they're used properly. Sometimes more dangerous than the pesticides is the substance in which the pesticides is dispersed, usually a petroleum distillate.

Using and Storing Pesticides

The first thing you want to do is identify the target pest properly. Pesticides may be ineffective if you don't know what you're dealing with. To be positive you know the species of insect, catch one in a jar and check it against pictures in an insect book at the library or on the Internet. If you still can't identify it, try your local agricultural agent, pest control operator, or retail nursery.

When you're shopping for pesticides, only look at products designed to take out your target pest. It is actually illegal (and not very smart) to use a pesticide against a species it was not designed for. Read the warning labels carefully. Anything with a skull and crossbones on it is very deadly and should be rarely used if ever. Pesticides that say, "Keep Out Of the Reach of Children" are still dangerous but are the least toxic of the varieties. If in doubt, ask how much of what you need for the job.

Rules for using Pesticides Safely

• If you're going to use the pesticide indoors, make sure the label says it's okay to do so.
• Use the least toxic substance that will do the job.
• If you're buying a pesticide for food plants, make sure the label says it's okay to apply to the plant you're growing.
• Be careful not to endanger other humans, pets, livestock, wildlife, or beneficial insects. Watch out for groundwater as well.
• Don't use outdoor pesticides indoors.
• Only buy as much as you need for the job. This prevents the need to store dangerous chemicals around the house.
• Read the label before using any pesticides. You may need to buy special gear to apply the product. You may also need to wear goggles, protective clothing, or a respirator.
• Have the number for the local poison control center where you can find it in case of accidents.