As farming and home gardening gets into full swing, the Lawrence County Farm Bureau recommends following a few consumer tips related to pesticides and other farming chemicals.

Monday, June 04, 2001

As farming and home gardening gets into full swing, the Lawrence County Farm Bureau recommends following a few consumer tips related to pesticides and other farming chemicals.

Pesticides are a necessary part of most farms and gardens today, and like other tools, pesticides and other chemicals can be dangerous if certain precautions are not heeded, the Farm Bureau said.

These precautions can help, officials said:

– Pesticides can enter the body through many different routes. The most common route is through the skin. People working with chemicals should wear protective equipment and clothing to prevent contact and inhalation.

– Wash your hands with soap and water if they touch containers, equipment or clothes that have come in contact with the chemical.

– Always wear unlined, elbow-length gloves when handling any pesticide concentrate or chemicals that carry the words "Danger," "Poison" or "Warning." Never wear cotton or leather gloves because they can absorb the chemicals. Always check gloves carefully for leaks before wearing them by filling the gloves with water and squeezing.

– Wear unlined, lightweight rubber boots that cover your ankles. Also wear trouser legs on the outside so the pesticide cannot drain down into the boots.

– Wear tight fitting, non-fogging, chemical splash goggles or a full face shield when pouring, mixing or applying pesticides.

– Do not store or wash contaminated clothing with the family laundry.

– Respirators prevent inhalation of toxic chemicals. Read pesticide labels to see if they call for respirators.

– The hair and skin on your neck should be protected. There are several available types of headgear: waterproof rain hats, washable wide-brimmed hard or bump hats or caps.