Risks of Pesticides to Humans

Pesticides used to be the go-to way to address pest concerns in and around the home. Today, we know that there are significant risks to humans, pets, and “good” pests, like bees, butterflies, and ladybugs, from using toxic pesticides. Pesticides are used to kill pests, so it makes sense that these same chemicals would harm others if they experience prolonged exposure to the same poisons. The risk varies from situation to situation, and low-level exposure may not pose a danger to humans. However, it can still lead to skin and eye irritation, as well as potentially cause illness. However, there are low-toxicity pest control treatments and humane bee removal methods that do not pose a risk to people. When you have a choice, why choose something that could potentially put others at risk? In today’s vast pest control market, there is no excuse to use toxic pesticides and put other people and pollinators in harm's way. Just because it is cheap and easy to get does not mean it is the best option!

Pesticide Side Effects

Some pesticides can affect the nervous system, while others irritate the skin and eyes. Many people claim to be experiencing pollen waves, but in many cases, it is the pesticide used to control bugs and mosquitoes that can also irritate. Any pest control pesticide can be researched to determine its potential side effects and whether these effects are significant enough to render the product unacceptable, as per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA considers individual pesticides as well as possible combinations that people may be exposed to. Nobody knows what is being used in the fields near their homes or what they breathe in as they walk, run, drive, or spend time outdoors.

The toxic effects of pesticides include effects through consumption, inhalation, or contact with the skin. The level of toxicity can often be determined by several factors, including the need for protective clothing, cautionary warnings (indicated by skulls on the label), first aid statements, and the requirement that the product be used only by trained professionals. Homeowners motivated to get rid of pests are often not trained professionals, which puts them and their loved ones at risk.

Cleaning Under the Sink

Most people are surprised to figure out which chemicals they have under their sink or in the garage. Many products that were once acceptable are no longer safe for use. The first step is to recognize if you have expired or dangerous chemicals in your home and properly dispose of those that are no longer considered safe for use. The EPA is strict about labeling, and these standards have become increasingly stringent over the years. Therefore, it is essential to know what you have and modify your use of pest control accordingly. Pesticides are not necessary to treat beehives, even if a beehive must be removed from a home. One of the worst things a person can do is kill a large beehive in their wall and be left with icky, rotting, and gooey honey, honeycomb, and bee carcasses – all of these are a magnet for roaches and rats!

Environmentally Conscious Choices

As summer arrives and hot days persist with little rainfall, bug and pest activity is likely to increase. Although it may be tempting to put all flying and crawling things in the same "pest" category, this is an oversimplification. Bees, butterflies, ladybugs, and other pollinators have a critical role in our ecosystem and must be protected. Using toxic pesticides even to treat pests that may deserve it (roaches, poisonous spiders, etc.) can adversely affect people, pets, and good insects! If you encounter a concern over bees or wasps, contact a professional and humane bee removal company. If you are unsure what pest problem you have but suspect it may be bees or wasps, follow the same steps. D-Tek Live Bee Removal offers free inspections, helping homeowners understand their situation and how to address it while maintaining environmental responsibility. D-Tek uses advanced methods for humane live bee removal, but they also know how to get rid of wasps and proof your property to keep bees and wasps from coming back.