Pesticides

The Pesticides Awareness Team Presents:

What are pesticides, and how do they effect the environment and people if improperly used?

Pesticides are substances intended for preventing, destroying and repelling insects, weeds, rodents and fungus. A pesticide is generally a chemical or biological agent that deters, incapacitates, kills or otherwise discourages pests.

What are Pesticides?

50% of our nations population relies on groundwater for drinking water

95% of our nations population in rural/ agricultural areas uses groundwater

Pesticides can get into our Water

Exposure to pesticides can cause skin irritation, damage to the nervous system, tumors, genetic mutations, genetic disorders, cancer, birth defects, and more

Acute exposure can be fatal and can cause death

Pesticides & Health

Natural doesnt always mean harmless!!!

Whether or not an organic pesticide is safe enough to use in your yard/house and near water is determined exactly the same way as for any other pesticide.

Does Organic mean Chemical-Free?

5 steps to Safe Pesticide Use Read and understand pesticide labels before using the chemicals

1. Identify the problem: What is the bug, rodent, or weed that you wanting to get rid of?

2. Select the right product: Choose a product that is designed to control the specific pest you are targeting.

3. Prepare the area:

Keep children and pets at a distance during applicationsKeep off until the product dries, or as long as the product label suggests Have absorbent materials nearby in case the product is spilled.

Read and follow the label instructions:Be sure to follow directions about

Proper protective clothingMixing solution Rinsing containers Appropriate dosage levels

This is important when using pesticides as the safety and effectiveness of both depend on proper use.

Always wash your hands after applying a pesticide.

5. Do not overuse or underuse:

Overuse can be hazardous Underuse can help pests build up an immunity to the pesticide making treatment ineffective.

Critical Thinking is NeededHelp Protect Our Environment Against Pests and Pollution

The End