Pesticides can be dangerous if they are used carelessly or not stored properly, advises California Poison Control System (CPCS). Using them safely depends upon several things, including selecting the appropriate product for your needs and following the directions on the label to the letter to ensure you’re using that product properly.

“Whenever you use pesticides, it’s critical to read the entire label before each use,” said Dr. Rais Vohra, Medical Director for the Fresno/Madera Division of CPCS. “Make sure to pay close attention to the precautions and restrictions listed. Also, don’t use any pesticide for any pest that isn’t indicated on the label.”

Tips to Ensure Pesticide Safety

Read and follow the entire pesticide label before use.

Follow mixing instructions exactly and mix outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.

Be prepared for a pesticide spill and clean it up promptly. Take measures to clean up properly.

Mix only what you need to use in the short term.

Don’t use more pesticide than the label directs. More is not better.

Before using the pesticide, make sure kids, pets, and non-essential individuals are out of the area during application. Follow label directions for length of time to keep them away.

Wear protective clothing when handling pesticides, such as long pants, long-sleeve shirts, impermeable gloves, and even safety glasses to prevent accidental eye contact. Immediately after applying, change clothes and wash your hands.

Keep products in original containers.

Make sure to keep pesticides away from food and pet areas.

“Accidents can happen even when you read labels and follow directions,” continued Dr. Vohra. “So be sure to pay attention to symptoms that might indicate pesticide poisoning. Symptoms due to acute pesticide poisoning can go from mild to severe, affect all parts of the body, and can feel similar to the symptoms of other illnesses like the flu or a heat-related illness.”

Symptoms of Pesticide Poisoning

Rash, heavy sweating, or skin irritation

Red, watery, or irritated eyes

Chest pain

Shortness of breath or cough with phlegm

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain

Tiredness, weakness, headaches, muscle twitches

Dizziness or confusion

Seizures

Loss of consciousness

If you suspect someone has pesticide poisoning, CPCS advises you to get medical help right away. Call 911 or go to an emergency department.

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 (number is the same in all states) for questions about poison encounters. Trained pharmacists, nurses and other providers are available to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is free, confidential and interpreters are available. Get weekly tips about safety by texting TIPS to 20121 for English or texting PUNTOS to 20121 for Spanish. Follow CPCS on Facebook and on Twitter @poisoninfo. CPCS is part of the University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy and is responsible to the California Emergency Medical Services Authority.