When keeping bugs at bay, use caution when you spray indoors-- Failure to follow proper label instructions can harm indoor air quality

LANSING, MI--As spring arrives and household pests once again begin to invade our homes, people start looking for ways to control indoor pests. Controlling common household pests such as spiders, flies, cockroaches, fleas, mice, mold, or bacteria, may be accomplished by repairing screens, sealing small openings or in some cases involve the application of a pesticide. The improper use of pesticides to control insects and mold or bacteria can place humans and domestic animals at risk to exposure to the pesticide. ''Just because a pesticide is available 'over the counter' doesn't mean there isn't a potential human health risk, if consumers aren't following the label's directions,'' said Ken Rauscher, Pesticide and Plant Pest Division Director for the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA). ''Pesticides have risks and benefits. But, it's essential you are applying the product according to directions to reduce the risk of pesticide exposure and adverse health effects to your family and your pets.'' MDA recommends using an integrated pest management (IPM) approach, for controlling pests inside the home. IPM is a common sense approach that considers all available methods to control a pest rather than relying exclusively on pesticides. ''When fewer pesticides are used or stored in the home, the risk for exposure or accidental poisoning can be significantly reduced,'' said Rauscher. The following precautions should be followed when applying pesticides indoors:Read the directions on the pesticide label and follow them carefully: * Use non-chemical methods of pest control when possible. * Ventilate the area during and after pesticide use. * Store pesticides safely out of the reach of children. * Dispose of unused pesticides safely (follow label directions). MDA's Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division regulates pesticide use, registers pesticide products for sale and use in Michigan; and certifies applicators and licenses businesses performing pesticide applications. MDA also investigates allegations of pesticide misuse. For more information on the safe use of pesticides, visit the MDA web site at www.michigan.gov/mdapest. Find us on Facebook! Go to Facebook.com/mideptofagriculture Follow MDA on Twitter at MichDeptofAg. Published: Thu, Mar 25, 2010

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