How to Use Insecticides

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Say the word insecticide and you will get a dozen different responses from 12 different people. Some people believe that they are a necessary evil in order to protect ourselves from insects that carry disease or even death. Others believe that they should never be used because they cause as many problems as they solve. Still others will speak up to say that some of the newer, all natural insecticides on the market are the only way to go. Where ever you may come down on the issue of these chemicals, it is important to understand how to use them safely. Following the steps listed below should help you accomplish just that.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Determine "if" you really need to use insecticides. If there are other ways of solving your insect problem, explore those first. Such options might include traps, lights, natural home ingredients, or other options.

Step2

Determine the "type" of insecticide that you need to use. Not all insecticides are the same. Some are more dangerous than others, no matter the type of problem you are trying to solve. Whenever possible, you should choose the insecticide that provides the most impact with the least amount of side effects and/or dangerous issues.

Step3

Find out if there are all natural or organic alternatives to the more dangerous insecticide chemicals.

Step4

Ask questions of experts in the area of pest control about the best type of insecticide to use for your specific problem. Don't automatically accept the first suggestion. Do research to determine the best insecticide to use with the least amount of inherent problems.

Step5

Wear protective gear such as recommended clothing, gloves, masks, head gear, and/or other items that will help keep the insecticide from invading your person, your clothing, hair, nails, or any part of your body.

Step6

Use protective covers for furniture and equipment near the area that you will be treating with insecticides. For example, if you are treating a rose bush that sits right next to your family's outdoor grill, cover the grill before dispensing the insecticide. That will ensure that the chemicals do not settle in an area that could impact on your family's health.

Step7

Use the equipment outlined in the insecticide's instructions.

Step8

Use the supplies outlined in the insecticide's instructions.

Step9

Follow the instructions for the specific insecticide(s) chosen with regard to mixing and dispensing the chemical(s) as well as treatment repetition.

Step10

Use the insecticide only on the types of plants, food, or animals authorized for that specific chemical.

Tips & Warnings

Use protective clothing and supplies whenever you are using insecticides.
Use protective covers and tarps on furniture, equipment, and other items near the area being sprayed with insecticides.
Always opt for organic or all natural insecticide options when they are available.
Do not pick and choose only those steps that are convenient or that fit into with the equipment that you have on hand.
Do not make equipment or supply substitutions from that outlined on the insecticide you are using.
Do not spray insecticides near equipment, supplies, furniture, or other items that may come in contact with humans or animals.
Do not mix insecticides in any way other than that outlined in the chemical's instructions.
Do not dispense insecticides in any way or on plants, food, or animals that are not authorized within the chemical's instructions.
Do not repeat the use of the insecticide any more often than outlined on the instruction.