Use of Pesticides

All the pesticides sold for domestic use are relatively safe. But please read the following common sense guide-lines on the use of these materials:

• Read (and follow) the precautions and instructions on the packaging, particularly those relating to handling, storage and disposal.

• Never exceed the manufacturers recommended concentration and dose rate. These have been carefully researched to give the safest and best control.

• Always remember to store garden and household chemicals away from young children, pets, food, etc. Keep children and pets away from recently treated areas, preferably for several days (check the product label for advice about this).

• If edible crops are treated, check for instructions on the minimum interval between treatment and harvesting. Always keep to this interval to allow time for any residue of pesticide to decline before the crop is harvested and eaten.

• Always wear rubber or disposable household gloves when handling and applying pesticides. Gloves (and anything else) contaminated with chemicals should be thoroughly rinsed in water as soon as possible.

• It is advisable to use a face-mask of some sort to prevent inhaling pesticides, particularly when these are applied as fine sprays or dusting powders.

• Always wash your hands after you have finished using pesticides.

• Never dispose of unused chemicals or their wastes down sinks, drains or lavatories, or in water-courses or ditches. Take care to protect wildlife and natural habitats from pesticide contamination.

• REMEMBER - THESE PRECAUTIONS ARE FOR YOUR SAFETY.

When insecticide treatments are unavoidable, it is best to use a chemical that controls only the problem pest, or has a short-term effect. This will cause least harm to useful predators and other beneficial insects. For example, products containing PIRIMICARB will control aphids but have much less effect on other insects. Insecticides such as ROTENONE (DERRIS) and PYRETHRUM and those based on NATURAL FATTY ACIDS, have a short-lived contact effect. If targeted at the pest accurately, these compounds are relatively harmless to beneficial species. Look for these chemicals by careful reading of product labels or by consulting your supplier. It is well worth the effort to protect beneficial insects and your environment.