Pesticides

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Pesticides and food

For those not exposed to pesticides at work, the risks of exposure from eating non-organic foods or using pesticides around the home and garden is not clear. To date, research has not been able to prove or disprove claims that organic food is safer than food grown using pesticides.

FOOD AND PESTICIDES

To help protect yourself and your family from pesticides on non-organic fruits and vegetables, remove the outer leaves of leafy vegetables and then rinse the vegetables well with tap water. Peel hard-skinned produce, or rinse it with lots of warm water mixed with salt and lemon juice or vinegar. Organic growers do not use pesticides on their fruits and vegetables.

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HOME SAFETY AND PESTICIDES

When using pesticides at home:

• Do NOT eat, drink, or smoke while using pesticides
• Do NOT mix pesticides
• Do NOT set traps or place bait in areas where children or pets have access
• Do NOT stock up on pesticides -- buy only as much as you need
• Read the manufacturer's instructions and only use as much of the product as directed, in the manner directed
• Store pesticides in the original container with the lid firmly sealed, out of the reach of children
• Wear any protective clothing, such as rubber gloves, specified by the manufacturer

When using pesticides indoors:

• Do NOT apply pesticide sprays to items or areas touched by family members, such as furniture
• Leave the room while the pesticide takes effect -- open the windows to clear the air when you return
• Remove or cover food, cooking utensils, and personal items from the area being treated, then clean kitchen surfaces well before preparing food
• When using baits, clear away all other food debris and scraps to ensure the pests are drawn to the bait

When using pesticides outdoors:

• Close all doors and windows before using the pesticide
• Cover fish ponds, barbeques, and vegetable gardens, and relocate pets and their bedding before using pesticides
• Do NOT use pesticide outdoors on rainy or windy days
• Do NOT water your garden after using a pesticide -- check the manufacturer's instructions for how long to wait
• Tell your neighbors if you use any outdoor pesticides