Safe Use of Bug Repellants and Insecticides

When used properly, pesticides, insecticides, bug sprays and other chemicals used to eliminate or repel insects and other pests are harmless and even beneficial. They control insect and rodent infestations that can be dangerous and damaging to human beings and protect plants—from individual flower gardens to the largest crop fields. However, when used improperly or for incorrect purposes, these devices and methods can be very dangerous. Since March is poison prevention awareness month, we want to run through how to safely use all these products without harming yourself, your family, your pets and any plants.

While you might not directly be involved with pest control, that doesn’t mean you are not potentially exposed to any of the chemicals used in pest control. Mosquito repellant or other bug sprays, pesticides used on farms, rat poison…these are all examples of everyday pesticides that you might come in contact with. So, to ensure you, your family and your pets are able to be as safe as possible, we collected some of the best safety tips we could find below:

• Always read the directions on any pest control product you buy. Whether it’s a mosquito repellant or for warding off wasps, the directions will tell you how to use the product, how to store it safely and what to do if it is accidentally ingested by humans or animals.

• Listen to the professionals. If you are having your home, office or other property professionally treated for any pest problem, make sure to find out if chemicals are being used. Then ask your pest professional for safety instructions and listen carefully. They will tell you everything you need to know to ensure you do not get sick, and what to do if you do have a reaction to any of the products used.

• Make sure all pest control and rodent control products—including bug spray and rat poison—are stored in a safe place, away from the reach of children and animals.

• Apply mosquito repellant only to clothing and exposed skin—not under clothing. And never apply repellants to broken skin, open wounds, ears, mouth or eyes.

• Always apply children’s mosquito repellant for them, to avoid over spraying or accidental spraying into sensitive areas.

• Leave large scale application of pest control products to trained professionals.

• If you do choose to apply a pesticide or insecticide to your lawn or garden on your own, follow these additional steps:
  • Mix only as much product as needed to avoid having to store or dispose of any.
  • Wear protective clothing including gloves, boots, long pants, long sleeves, and goggles.
  • Do not apply on rainy or windy days.
  • Change your clothes and thoroughly wash your hands after application.
  • Have the number for the Poison Control Center handy: 1-800-222-1222.

• After you are finished with activities requiring pesticides or repellants, bathe thoroughly.

• If you suspect your pet has been exposed to a rodenticide, call your vet or the Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

At Emtec Pest Control, we are committed to safe and responsible pest control. We understand that your family’s safety is your number one priority, so we make it our priority, too. If you have any other questions about pesticides or how to avoid pest prevention-related accidents, get in touch with the experts at Emtec Pest Control by calling 918-663-0613 or by filling out our online contact form. Our service areas in Northeast Oklahoma include Bixby, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Owasso, Jenks, Sand Springs, Sapulpa, Skiatook, Stillwater, Tulsa, and the surrounding areas. In Central Oklahoma, we service Edmond, Moore, Oklahoma City, Yukon, and the surrounding areas. You can also connect with us on social media for more helpful pest control tips and information.