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Use
Pesticide Control Products Responsibly
You
have probably experienced an occasional household, lawn or garden
pest in or around your home. Perhaps it's a pesky insect problem,
an ornamental disease or a lawn weed. To remedy the problem, you
may call a professional or treat the problem yourself.
When
using pesticides, you are reminded to follow a few simple guidelines
to ensure their safe and responsible use. RISE (Responsible Industry
for a Sound Environment)®, an association representing manufacturers
and others who produce and supply pesticides for use in homes, on
lawns and public areas, offers the following information on the
safe and responsible use of pesticides.
Pest
Control Products Are Extensively Tested
Many
people are unaware of the rigorous testing today's pest control
products must successfully complete before becoming available in
the market. The pesticide industry is one of the most highly regulated
in the nation. After thorough review, the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) registers only those uses of pesticide products that
pose minimal risks.
- It
takes a chemical manufacturer eight to 10 years to test and register
a product.
- Up
to 120 tests or more are performed, many to evaluate environmental
and health impacts.
- Only
one pesticide in 20,000 makes it from the research lab to the
market.
- A
product will cost between $30 and $50 million to register.
Follow
an IPM Strategy
Integrated
Pest Management (IPM) is a pest control system developed by professionals
in which pests are identified, all possible control options are
evaluated and selected control(s) are implemented. An IPM program
stresses the prevention of pest problems and the judicious use of
pesticides when necessary.
Read
and Follow the Label, It's the Law
- Identify
the pest and be sure the pesticide to be used is labeled for that
pest.
- Wear
the protective clothing the label specifies.
- Follow
the label directions for mixing solution and rinsing spray containers.
- Apply
the proper amount of product required. Do not overuse!
- Always
wash your hands after applying a pesticide.
- Keep
children and pets away during applications and until the product
dries, or as long as the label suggests.
Store
Pest Control Products Safely
- Store
pesticides out of reach of children and pets.
- Always
store pesticides in their original containers in a cool, dry place.
- Protect
the directions on the package by covering them with clear tape.
- Write
the date of purchase somewhere on the container.
- Periodically
check the container for possible leaks.
Pest
Prevention In Your Home
- Eliminate
wet areas that provide pests with water, including leaky pipes,
damp basement areas and standing water.
- Keep
food containers closed, including pet food.
- Dispose
of garbage regularly.
- Seal
cracks and crevices around the foundation of your home to keep
pests outside.
Lawn
Maintenance and Pest Prevention
- Healthy,
vigorous plants and lawns can better compete with most weeds,
insects and diseases.
- Use
grasses that grow well in your climate. Water these areas as needed.
- Keep
a good pH balance in the soil by having your soil tested once
a year.
- Fertilize
as recommended for your lawn variety.
There
are several organizations you can turn to for advice on pest control
and the safe and responsible use of pesticides.
National
Pest Control Association - (703) 573-8330
Professional Lawn Care Association of America - (770) 977-5222
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - (202) 260-2090
County extension offices, found in the white pages of your local
phone book.
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