At UC IPM we recognize pesticide safety education every month, but February in particular is National Pesticide Safety Education Month! Below are some simple tips for using pesticides safely to protect yourself, others, wildlife, and the environment.
Tip #1: Avoid applying pesticides outdoors when it is windy or raining, or when stormy weather is expected. Applying in these conditions can result in pesticide drift, where the pesticide moves through the air and can accidentally harm waterways, you or other people, and desirable plants. Pesticides applied before or during rainfall (or irrigation) can run off the landscape into storm drains and pollute waterways.
Tip #2: Check the pesticide label to make sure the product is meant to control the pest you are trying to manage. A fungicide product may not control all plant diseases, and many herbicides do not control all weeds. Therefore, accurate pest identification is essential.
Tip #3: Make sure the pesticide you plan to use can be used in the area where your pest is. For example, outdoor ant sprays may not be used indoors, and certain pesticides cannot be used in vegetable gardens but can be used on lawns or ornamental plants. Not all pesticides can be used in all areas.
Tip #4: Protect yourself from pesticide exposure by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, long pants, a long sleeve shirt, and a mask. Gloves should be made of a chemically resistant material such as nitrile, not leather or cotton. Masks should be NIOSH-approved, such as an N95. Be sure to launder contaminated clothing separately from your other laundry.
Tip #5: Don't let children under the age of 18 apply pesticides. This includes insect repellents, disinfecting wipes or cleaners, or traditional lawn and garden pesticides. Keep pesticides out of reach of children or in a locked cabinet for their safety.
These tips apply for all pesticides, including those that are organic or natural. As always, read the pesticide label for specific requirements and use instructions for the product. Be sure to do this every time, since pesticide formulations and labels may change. Following the pesticide label can help protect you, your family, and the environment.
To learn more about safe and effective use of pesticides, visit https://ipm.ucanr.edu/GENERAL/pesticides_urban.html.
