More deaths and sickness are caused each year from pesticide and herbicide poisoning than from car crashes, boating accidents and from drowning..........combined.

All pesticide and herbicide containers bought from reputable outlets MUST contain the brand name, the
percentage of active ingredients, the name of those active ingredients, antidotes, and the proper amount of
water to mix with the product to make a finished solution that is both efficient and safe.

Strict attention should be paid to the mixing of chemicals and water, and label directions should always be
followed.......to the letter.  These directions are there for you, the homeowners benefit, and should never
be mixed at a stronger mixture level than is called for.  Many homeowners have the mistaken notion that
if the label calls for 2 oz. of chemical per gallon, for example..... adding 4 oz. or 6 oz. of chemical will be
even better and will do an even better job.  This is a false and, more important, a dangerous assumption.
Again....NEVER overmix your solution.  Many hours have gone into research which has arrived at the 
optimal percentage rate.  Avoid the temptation to overmix and you will be happier and safer.

Any mixture that is left in your pumpup sprayer, unless you will use it within a week or so, should be
diluted with water and spread out over your lawn.  Do not pour the mixture down the sink or drain as 
it may find it's way into the water system.  Rinse out your spray can again.....again spreading the diluted
mixture over your lawn.  Hang the spray can upside down in a storage shed or similar structure and
you will be ready to go when you again need your compressed air sprayer.

From time to time it is good to inspect your spray can to make sure all seals and rubber washers are in 
good shape and will not leak.  The wearing of unlined rubber gloves and protective eyewear is also a
must when mixing and spraying insecticides and herbicides, as is a good quality respirator.  The wearing
of long sleeved shirts will also protect your skin from chemical absorption.  If you have a deep sink, it
is a good idea to rinse out the clothes you wear after you spray......before putting them into the family
washing machine.  Even then, always wash those clothes separately from the family wash. 

I hope I have not scared anyone away from doing their own spraying.  When a certain amount of care
and commom sense is used, there is no reason why homeowners cannot take care of the smaller spray
jobs around their home.  The purpose of this web page is to make you aware of some of the dangers
involved in pesticides and herbicides, and how to go about using these products in a safe and productive
manner.