What is the risk?
The health effects of exposure to a pesticide depend on the specific chemical used, as well as the amount a person or animal is exposed to. Burning and itching of the eyes, nausea and cancer are all possible effects.
Children may be more susceptible to harm from pesticide exposure, because they are still developing. And when compared to an adult, children’s activities can put them in higher danger of exposure.
What you can do…
- Always follow manufacturer’s recommendations for appropriate use of pesticides.
- Wear gloves, protective eyewear and other protective equipment as recommended.
- Keep children and pets out of the immediate area during and immediately following application.
- Remind children not to touch their eyes or mouth after playing in the yard and to wash their hands frequently.
- Consider pulling weeds instead of poisoning them.
- Alternately, use natural, organic weed and pest control methods.
Links
- Request Additional Information
- Request Additional Information – [ Text Version ]
- US EPA – Pesticide Page
- How to Control Pests Safely
- How to Control Pests Safely (Spanish Version)
- National Pesticide Information Center
- National Farm Medicine Center
