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Reading the pesticide label is your first line of action when handling any pesticide.
You should read the label
- before buying the product
- before using the product
- before giving first aid to someone poisoned by the product
- before storing the product
- before disposing of an empty container
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When reading the label look for
- Poison or Danger, Warning and Caution
These words indicate the level of hazard associated with the product in decreasing order of toxicity. Keep in mind any product bearing one of these words pose some degree of hazard worth exercising care.
- Active Ingredients
Active ingredients are the chemicals and their concentrations that are responsible for its pest-controlling properties. Inert ingredients are chemicals that enhance the active ingredient's utility for stable shelf life or ease of use.
- Target Pests
Target pests and application sites tell the user what pests the product controls and where it can be used. If your pest or application site don't match up, don't use the product!
- Hazards
Look at hazards very closely. Language such as toxic to fish or flammable lets you know how to prevent a problem.
- Precautionary Statements
This usually reinforces how to avoid the product's hazards and will indicate medical treatment or antidote. If you need to wear protective clothing or if there's a waiting period before you can safely reenter a treated area it will note it here.
- How to Use, Store and Dispose
The label gives important mixture directions for concentrates, what equipment is necessary to apply the pesticide and what conditions are required for the product to be effective. Following storage and disposal directions avoids problems after the product has been used.
- Days to Harvest
This part of the label directs food gardeners how long they must wait before picking or eating fruit and vegetables.
- Manufacturer or Distribute
Further information about the product is available from this source.
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