When we visit with homeowners, this is a question that comes up almost every time. Are pesticides dangerous for my family and pets? The answer is fairly simple, Yes, pesticides can be dangerous to your family and pets if not used properly. They are designed to kill or control pests, which means they can also pose risks to humans and animals if misapplied or mishandled.
The pesticides used by our company are micro-encapsulated which protects humans and animals if they briefly come in contact with it. I’ll explain more later on.
Micro-Encapsulated Pesticides
These pesticides are coated in order to protect against un-intended infection of humans and animals. To read more bout this process you can visit Wikipedia. We use these pesticides almost 100% of the time. Because of my family situation, I understand how important it is to have products that will be accidentally handled by kids or pets. This is a daily occurrence for some families, and we are here to keep the bugs out and protect your family and pets from accidental contact with toxic chemicals.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential dangers and safety tips:
Potential Risks of Typical Pesticides
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Acute Toxicity:
- Ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact with pesticides can cause immediate health effects like nausea, dizziness, or skin irritation.
- Pets are particularly vulnerable due to their smaller size and habits like licking their fur or paws.
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Long-term Exposure:
- Prolonged or repeated exposure to certain pesticides may increase the risk of chronic health issues, including respiratory problems, hormonal disruptions, or even cancer.
- Children are especially susceptible due to their developing bodies and behaviors, such as crawling on treated surfaces.
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Environmental Residues:
- Pesticides can linger in the environment, potentially contaminating soil, water, or plants, which may indirectly affect health.
Safety Tips
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Choose Safer Alternatives:
- Opt for natural or less toxic pest control methods like diatomaceous earth, neem oil, or integrated pest management (IPM) from Proudfit Pest Control.
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Follow Instructions Carefully:
- Always read and adhere to the label directions when using pesticides.
- Avoid overusing products or applying them to unintended areas.
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Keep Pets and Kids Away:
- Ensure they are not present during application and keep them away from treated areas until the product has dried or settled completely.
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Store Safely:
- Keep pesticides out of reach of children and pets, in their original containers with proper labeling.
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Ventilate After Use:
- If applied indoors, ensure good ventilation to minimize inhalation risks.
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Consult a Professional:
- For persistent infestations, consider hiring licensed pest control professionals who use eco-friendly or pet-safe options.
Pesticide Poisoning
If you suspect pesticide poisoning, contact a veterinarian for pets, or a poison control center for family members immediately. In Phoenix Arizona there is the Banner Poison & Drug Information Center that can be reached by calling (602) 253-3334.
