Proper Pesticides

Commonly used pesticides are getting into local creeks, the Bay, and the Delta.

• Identify the pest and afflicted plant.
• Make sure the pesticide you choose is labeled for use on that plant and that pest.
• Read the entire label - it's the best source of information about how to use the product.
• If more than one product works, then select the least toxic pesticide. (see Signal Words).
• Buy only the amount you can use in one season.
• Time your treatments to catch pests at their most vulnerable stage.
• Spot treat whenever possible.
• Try to buy pesticides in single-use, or ready-to-use form. Avoid concentrates and the large economy sizes.

• The label on a pesticide container is a legal document that describes exactly how the product is to be used based on extensive testing. Make sure you understand how to mix and apply the pesticide before you begin, then follow all label directions exactly.
• Use the product only as described on the label.

Reading a pesticide Label

Signal Words

Caution, Warning, Danger and Poison are "signal words" that indicate the product's level of acute toxicity to humans. Caution means slightly toxic, Warning means moderately toxic, Danger means highly toxic, and Poison indicates the greatest danger. In addition to the acute (immediate) risks, pesticides may also have chronic (long-term) risks to humans, animals, and the environment.

• Read the label before using the pesticide and follow the directions. You can cause serious injury to yourself, children, pets and the environment if you misuse pesticides.
• Before using pesticides, remove children, pets, and toys from the area and cover birdbaths, fish ponds and anything else you don't want sprayed or dusted.
• Don't smoke, eat, chew gum or drink when handling pesticides.
• Follow label directions for wearing protective gear when mixing and applying pesticides. Depending on the product, this might include plastic or rubber gloves, safety glasses or goggles, a respirator rated for pesticides, long-sleeved shirt, long pants or coveralls, and closed shoes (no sandals or bare feet).
• If you buy concentrates and dilute them for use, mix up the smallest quantity that will do the job, and use it up.
• When mixing or measuring pesticides, use a dedicated set of spoons and cups. Mark the utensils with something permanent, such as fingernail polish, and store them with the pesticides so they won't ever be used in the kitchen.
• Store pesticides in their original containers, out of the reach of children and pets, in a cool, dark, dry place outside the house. A locking cupboard in the garage or storage shed is ideal.
• Never remove labels or transfer pesticides to other containers.
• Water used to rinse out a sprayer or applicator should be applied like the pesticide.
• After applying pesticides, take a shower and put on clean clothes.
• Teach children that pesticides are poisons that shouldn't be touched or consumed.

If you find yourself with unwanted pesticides, give them to someone who can use them, or take them to a household hazardous waste collection facility or event like the ones listed below and
REMEMBER:

• Don't pour leftover pesticides or water from rinsing equipment on the ground or in any type of drain inside or outside the house.
• Don't put pesticides in the trash.
• Never use or give away any pesticide that has been banned such as chlordane or DDT.

For Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste

If your community is not covered by any of the facilities or programs listed below, call your county environmental health department for information about the disposal of pesticides.

If you have any questions about the safety, environmental impact, or proper use of a pesticide, call the National Pesticide Telecommunications Network 24-hour hotline at 800-858-PEST.