Pesticide Safety

The best way to avoid the dangers of handling and storing pesticides, is to avoid pesticides altogether. However, if you insist on using pesticides, please ensure that you use them as safely as possible and according to the instructions on the label. Most pesticide poisonings to adult, children, and pets are caused by careless use or improper storage.

To avoid problems with handling and storage of pesticides purchase the least-toxic product available (see Non-toxic and Least-Toxic Solutions for more detail). You can determine the toxicity of a commercial product in part by the warning on the label: 'DANGER' indicates the highest toxicity; 'WARNING' a moderate toxicity; and 'CAUTION' the lowest toxicity.

Also ensure that you only by as much product as you need for one application

The next important step is to read the label on the pesticide product. Make sure you understand how to mix, apply, and store the product. In Canada it is required that any store selling pesticides have staff available that are able to explain to you the proper use of the products - ask questions if you are unsure.