February 25, 2008

LANSING - The Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) is urging consumers to use caution when applying pesticides indoors to control common household pests this winter. Common household pests include spiders, flies, cockroaches, fleas, mice, mold, or bacteria.

“Just because a pesticide is available ‘over the counter’ doesn’t mean its use doesn’t pose a human health risk, especially if it is not applied according to directions,” said Don Koivisto, MDA director. “Pesticides have risks as well as benefits, and it is important to use them properly. Applying the product according to directions reduces the risk of pesticide exposure to humans or pets and possible adverse health effects.”

Indoor air quality concerns are commonly associated with air contaminants like dust, mold, and insects. The use of pesticides to control insects and mold or bacteria can adversely affect indoor air quality if pesticides are applied improperly.

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.

“Implementing an IPM strategy minimizes the risks associated with the use of pesticides indoors," said Koivisto. “When fewer pesticides are used or stored in the home, the risk for exposure or accidental poisoning can be significantly reduced.”

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 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/mda.