Managing pest control methods for a healthy society
Pests have for ages being trouble makers in our society. Their presence around our homes is nothing but the destruction of property and food, spreading disease-causing micro-organism. It is not easy to keep them out, and at times it prompts people to use pesticides to terminate their menace. While some pests like ants only require you to buy an ant trap as an alternative to pesticides, other pests won’t just go away that easily. How then can we protect our homes, gardens, and yard from these harmful animals without putting ourselves and our health for that matter at risk?
Try prevention than cure
To some great extent, pests invade our homes because we have allowed them free and easy entrance. We have provided them their necessary condition for survival either indoors, outdoors, or both. Hence we can employ some tactics that are environmentally friendly and healthy for the entire society.
Cleanliness and scaling up on tidiness can be a big step towards achieving a pest-free home and society. Removing garbage and other trash that provides a source of food and water to pest will ensure that they get the message that they are not wanted. Storing of food in sealed containers in the kitchen deprives cockroaches and mice food, for example. Keeping the cabinets orderly and free of unnecessary clutter like newspapers will also deny them a breeding and hiding place. Fixing all leaking plumb works will deter the accumulation of water around our homes, which form breeding grounds for some pests.
In addition, closing all entry and hiding points for pests will deter them from entering your house in the first place. Cover all holes on the walls and spaces on the doors and windows and cracks on cabinets to deny them easy entrance and comfortable place to breed. When importing stuff such as furniture, check for any signs of infestations. Know more about the pests you are likely to deal with. Then arm yourself with some of these easy tricks, among others. At the end of the day, you may have no need to use chemicals that can have adverse effects on your health.
Correct use of pesticides
There is no doubt that the use of pesticides to eradicate bugs, flies, rodents, and other pests and harmful insects in the garden is a very effective method. Pesticides have the power to drive out these animals from their hiding where traps can’t be placed or wait for contact and kill the pests on the spot. When a home is highly infested, natural and physical eradication methods may not be effective. Our plants in the garden also depend on this consistent and sustainable pest control measure to successfully yield the desired output.
Therefore, we cannot run away from pesticides in this fight for survival. However, the benefits that we derive from them must be at the expense of our health. Otherwise, why kill a rat today and kill your self tomorrow using the same measure? When correctly used, pesticides are very safe for humans and the entire environment. What are the dos and don’ts of using pesticides? Read on.
The Do’s
After exploring the preventive measures, but the pests persist, the use of chemical defense is more effective. When well used, it has lower risks of exposure to human health by applying and keeping them away from children, pets, and other persons. Consider utilizing mild pesticides at the start, which are available for some pest and with lower health risks.
Pesticides should only be used on target locations only and not sprayed everywhere in the house, garden, or yard. This will limit the chances of contaminating other household items, food spots, water points, or drainage systems that may carry the residues to unwanted places. Before application, it is advisable to read instructions and safety warnings for first aid and treatment in case the chemicals are accidentally ingested.
Only use the appropriate pesticides for specific pests. Inquire from a professional the best type of pesticide to use at home as they are different from industrial and commercial pesticides that may be more lethal. Use read to apply pesticides if you want to handle the process by yourself. Otherwise, employ the services of a pest control specialist.
The Don’ts
Chemicals that are intended for outdoor use are usually more lethal to human health and domestic animals than indoor chemicals even though they are intended for the same type of pest. It will be hard for the residue to diminish their effectiveness after a long time and may end up contaminating food or ingested through contact.
Most people think that applying a double dosage will be more effective. Always follow the instructions to the letter. Too much of a dose is very dangerous for you and your family’s health. As you apply the chemicals, protect your hands, and face adequately to protect your skin prevent inhaling or ingestion. If you suspect you or any person or pet has been contaminated, seek medical attention immediately.
Finally, proper storage and disposal of leftovers is very important. Keep any unused pesticides in their original containers to prevent mistaken identity, especially by children. Dispose of empty packages in well labeled and tight plastic bags for collection by garbage collectors. Do not recycle the containers no matter how well you think you can wash them.
In summary
While pest poses a property and health risk, dealing with them should not also jeopardize the health of society directly or indirectly. With the proper use of pesticides, the world can live safely and free of unwanted pests in our homes. When purchasing pesticides, always ensure they are approved by the relevant governing authorities and marked safe for domestic use. If possible, consider the services of pest control agencies in cases of massive infestations.
