Poison Prevention Tips for Gardeners Proper lawn maintenance such as fertilizing, watering, aeration, and thatch removal will help keep your lawn healthy and reduce the need for chemicals. Remember there are many beneficial insects that do not cause harm, and which actually eat harmful insects. Be sure to investigate alternative solutions before resorting to chemical means.

Poison Prevention Tips for Gardeners If a chemical control is necessary, read the label first. When you read the label, you will understand the intended use, buy the proper amount, know how to store unused portions, and know how to dispose of the empty container.

Poison Prevention Tips for Gardeners Before using a pesticide, remove pet bowls, children’s toys, and other objects from the area to be sprayed. Put on protective gear. Wearing protective clothing and equipment when handling or applying pesticides reduces the risk of pesticide poisoning because the chance of exposure is reduced. At a minimum, when using pesticides, you should wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, long sleeves, and long pants. Depending on the type of pesticide and your individual sensitivity, you might also want to wear goggles or a respirator.

Poison Prevention Tips for Gardeners Mix the pesticides in a well-ventilated area, and only use the recommended amount. Using twice the amount of pesticide will not make the pest twice as dead, but can cause harm to other living organisms. Immediately recap any unused portion, keeping it in its original container. Storage in a safe place out of the reach of children in a cupboard with a lock or a safety latch.

Poison Prevention Tips for Gardeners Spray when there is little wind to avoid herbicide drift, since many flowering plants, trees, and shrubs are susceptible to herbicides. Do not eat, drink, or smoke while applying pesticides. Keep children, pets, and other adults out of the area while you are spraying. Don’t use more pesticides than is recommended on the product label.

Poison Prevention Tips for Gardeners When you are finished applying the pesticide, clean all equipment, gloves, and goggles. Wash the protective clothing separately from other laundry and shower and shampoo as soon as possible. Most people are more exposed to pesticides at home than anywhere else. They track lawn-applied products into the house even a week or more after they apply them. The pesticide builds up in carpets, furniture, etc. Children who play on the floor may be at greatest risk. Vacuuming removes about one-third of contaminated dust. A doormat helps, but it's best to remove your shoes.