Spraying your garden and yard with chemicals such as fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides can be very hazardous to your health and you may not even know it. Individuals who have allergies, breathing problems (especially those with asthma or other respiratory problems), and cancer could be potentially causing further harm not only to themselves but to their pets and young children as well.
Pesticides can enter the body through absorption through the skin, ingestion through the mouth, and inhalation. These sprays can cause chemical burns, dermatitis (swollen, reddened skin), eye irritation, and poisoning if accidentally consumed. Both adults and children are susceptible to external contact with the chemicals as well as ingestion and inhalation.
Another problem with spraying chemicals on your property is that not only may you suffer, but your beautiful plants, flowers, and other foliage will most likely be harmed and may develop a “burn”, especially if applied in high temperatures and direct sunlight. Severe chemical contamination can also include growth abnormalities of leaves and stems, which is a sign of toxic levels of contaminants in your soil. Certain trees and plants are sensitive to herbicides which are mixed in with fertilizers. Even if you apply a liquid spray to only a specific plant or weeds, you still have a chance that the spray or liquid can drift or run-off to other neighboring plants. Herbicides can also be active in soil for long periods of time and roots can be susceptible to more peril. Try not to use pesticides on delicate plants and flowers because they can cause serious damage.
Preventive Measures
If you choose to utilize chemical sprays in your garden, always thoroughly read the instructions on the bottle/box to prevent any burns or other types of injury caused by the chemicals. Make sure the particular spray is appropriate to use on your plants or treatment site.
Here are additional safety guidelines to consider:
- Read and follow label directions on all chemicals products.
- Do not mix two chemicals together unless indicated it is safe.
- Do not spray in windy conditions because the spray may end up on you.
- Do not spray when it is raining because other plants may suffer due to water runoff.
- Keep spray nozzles close to the targeted area.
- Do not use pesticides on plants that will be consumed.
- Do not use pesticides indoors when they are labeled “for outdoor use only”.
- Carefully read the “Danger”, “Warning”, or “Caution” label.
- Use/spray only the indicated amount on the label.
- Wear the required protective clothing, such as long rubber gloves, hat, goggles, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, covered shoes, and mask.
- Have an emergency and first aid kit ready in case of exposure (burns, irritation).
- Properly dispose of empty containers.
- Properly store pesticides so that young children will not have access to them.
- Purchase the least-toxic pesticide available.
- Research safer and natural ways to remove weeds and other yard nuisances.
If you have been seriously harmed or burned by chemicals and would like to know if you have a legal case, call Morici, Longo & Associates at (312) 779-0366. You may be able to take legal action against the company product responsible for your injuries and to help cover the costs of your injuries and other losses.
The above suggestions are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon as instructions for rendering medical help or advice. They are based solely on illustrative purposes. Morici, Longo & Associates does not make any warranty, expressed or implied for any products or suggestions mentioned, or any techniques or practices described.