Pesticides represent a broad category of chemicals that are intended to destroy, mitigate, or repel pests. They are primarily used in agriculture and in and around the home. If these powerful chemicals are misused, mislabeled, or left within reach of children, the consequences can be immediate and severe.
California Poison Control System (CPCS) advises that using pesticides safely depends on many things. Among the most important: 1) selecting the appropriate product; 2) using that product properly; 3) reading the label to use that product the right way in order to reduce the risk of problems; and 4) keep products in original containers and store these safely away from children and pets.
People can be exposed to pesticide residue in their home, school, or workplace without their knowledge. Pesticides can get inside your body by eating, drinking, breathing them in, as well as through skin contact. If you are exposed to a pesticide and begin to experience symptoms right away, it is called pesticide poisoning.
“Pesticide poisoning symptoms can range 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,” said Dr. Rais Vohra, Medical Director for the Fresno/Madera Division of CPCS. “If you suspect you or someone else has pesticide poisoning, get medical help right away.”
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 use a pesticide, it’s very important to read the label before each use. The label includes a wealth of information including: the intended use of the pesticide, important precautions and restrictions, how much to use, what, if any, protective equipment to wear, and other important safety information.
“Pesticides can be dangerous if they are used carelessly or not stored properly. Follow the tips below to help prevent pesticide exposure,” added Dr. Vohra.
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, thoroughly, and 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 pesticides, change clothes and wash your hands.
Keep products in original containers.
Make sure to keep pesticides away from food and pet areas.
If you suspect someone has pesticide poisoning, CPCS advises you to 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. CPCS is part of the University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy and is responsible to the California Emergency Medical Services Authority.
