What can consumers do to protect children from pesticide-related poisonings?
A. A recent survey by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regarding pesticide use in and around the home revealed that almost half (47%) of all households with children under the age of 5 had at least one pesticide stored in an unlocked cabinet, and less than 4 feet off the ground (i.e., within reach of children). The survey also found that 75% of households without children under the age of 5 also stored one pesticide within reach of children. This number is especially significant because 13% of all pesticide poisonings occur in homes other than the child’s home. Adults should take the following steps to safeguard children from exposures to pesticides: • Always store pesticides away from children’s reach, in a locked cabinet or garden shed. • Read the label first and follow the directions to the letter, including all precautions and restrictions. • Before applying pesticides (indoors and outdoors), remove children and their toys from the area and keep them away until it is dry or
