Pesticide Broadcast (Newsletter)

Stephen J. Toth, Jr., Pest Management Information Specialist
Wayne G. Buhler, Pesticide Education Specialist

Volume 16, Number 3, March 22, 2006

EPA Reminds Public to Keep Household Pesticides and Chemicals Away from Kids

In observance of National Poison Prevention Week, March 19-25, EPA is reminding the public-at-large of the importance of keeping household pesticides and chemicals out of the reach of children to prevent accidental poisonings. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that more than 9 out of 10 suspected poisonings occur at home, and the culprit usually is a common household product. Tips on how to protect children from pesticide and lead poisonings are available in both English and Spanish at EPA's Web site at: http://www.epa.gov/oppfead1/cb/10_tips/.

EPA has expanded its efforts and is working with the Migrant Clinicians' Network (MCN) on a campaign aimed at educating farm workers about how to protect their families from the potential dangers of pesticides. The campaign, "La Proteccion De Su Familia Esta En Sus Manos" (The Protection of Your Family is in Your Hands), will be done in Spanish, since the vast majority of farm workers are Spanish-speaking, and will consist of television, radio and print interviews. The campaign will educate families about steps they can take to reduce pesticides residue exposures from their clothes, hands and shoes.

EPA has additional educational materials available to help prevent accidental poisonings. The materials can be obtained by calling EPA's Environmental Publications line at 1-800-490-9198. Additional information on poison prevention is available at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/ppweek-lockit.htm.

Information on National Poison Prevention Week is available at: http://www.poisonprevention.org.

Source: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pesticide Programs, Pesticide Program Updates, March 22, 2006

Recommendations for the use of chemicals are included in this publication as a covenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact an agent of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in your county.

Employment and program opportunities are offered to all people regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.

Last modified on March 22, 2006 by Stephen J. Toth, Jr.