Am I ready for an emergency?
Any time you are going to initiate a pesticide handling activity, be sure you are prepared for injuries, spills, etc. You should have personal decontamination equipment. This should include extra coveralls (in case your clothing is saturated), clean water, detergent and paper towels.
You also need a fully stocked first aid kit with a plastic eyewash dispenser.
A spill cleanup kit should also be on hand at all times. Personal protective equipment and supplies for cleanup should be available.
Before you are in an emergency situation, know whom you will call. Acquaint yourself with signs and symptoms of exposure, poisoning, and injury from pesticide. In an emergency, remove the victim and then call for help.
Is the area clear of people and animals?
Only trained, authorized technicians should be allowed in a pesticide application site. Make sure that the area has been cleared completely and that people know how long they must remain out of the area to avoid exposure.
Think everything through before you begin a pesticide application to be sure you avoid wrong decisions. Problems include incorrect use that damages the target area, wasted materials, and the inability to control pests. Pesticides used incorrectly can harm people, animals and locations. They can also result in legal action. Finally, incorrect use of pesticides is costly.
Use your knowledge to decide what pesticide is best for the situation. If you have trouble assessing the situation, contact someone who can help like the dealer, a trade association or the Cooperative Extension Service.