What Are the Dangers of Insect & Pest Control Chemicals?

A variety of insects and pests can invade your house. There are a number of methods to control any infestation. A common method is using insect and pest control chemicals, commonly known as pesticides and insecticides. The use of these chemicals can be effective, but there a number of drawbacks and dangers to humans and pets alike.

Types of Insects and Pests

Insect and pest control chemicals are typically used to control a variety of insects and other pests. The insects that are often targeted by these chemicals are ants, mosquitoes, fleas, spiders, flies and stinging insects like bees, wasps and hornets. Pest control chemicals can also be used to target rodents like mice and rats.

Types of Insect and Pest Control Chemicals

There are three common types of insect and pest control chemicals in use today. The common trait of all three chemicals is that they are designed to target the nervous system of various animals. Pest control chemicals are the result of nerve agents used during World War II, and their effects are similar in pests as what one would expect in a human when exposed to a nerve agent. Other pest control chemicals will cause internal hemorrhaging, cardiac arrest or kidney failure in rodents and insects.

Dangers to Pets

Flea drops would be considered a form of pesticide designed to kill fleas on dogs, cats and other small pets. Some animals will have side effects or outright allergies to flea drops. The effects are usually excessive drooling, restlessness or otherwise unusual behavior. Since all flea medicine is different, any unusual behavior following application should be closely monitored.

Dangers to Humans

Since pesticides are toxic to rodents and other mammals, it is possible that humans could suffer the same effects if a large enough quantity is ingested or absorbed. Numerous diseases have been linked to insect and pest control chemicals including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's and a variety of cancers.

Keys to Safety

The most important part of keeping your family and your pets safe while using insect and pest control chemicals is by following the instructions for use printed on the product label. Keeping pets and children far away from the chemicals while in use will limit their exposure. If you are pregnant or ill, you should not use insect or pest control chemicals. Lastly, never use more of a chemical than necessary to avoid polluting your house, yard or the environment.

References

• Dangerous Pests
• Pesticide Dangers
• Pest Control Can Spell Danger for Your Pet