While using chemicals for termite control is the most important thing to do upon infestation, most people are apprehensive about whether the chemicals used are safe for the family and the pets.
Therefore, in this article, we’ll outline the safety concerns when using chemicals in termite control. Importantly, we’ll discuss practical ways to minimize all the possible risks.
Are Termite Control Chemicals Harmful to Humans and Pets?
The answer is yes and no. When handled, stored, and applied professionally, termite control chemicals only harm the termites and cause minimal harm to humans and pets, if any.
Therefore, most termite control products can be toxic to humans and pets when handled inappropriately. This validates the concern many people have about the safety of these chemicals.
Ways to Minimize the Adverse Effects of Termite Pest Control.
1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the treatments
For effectiveness and to minimize exposure to people and pests, termite control products should be applied directly into the soil or within bait stations.
2. Keep off the property for some hours
In most cases, and unless otherwise instructed, it’s advisable to keep off the premises during the application exercise. The time you stay away should depend on the treatment and the chemicals used.
3. Ensure the place is well-ventilated
You should open windows for adequate ventilation in cases where the operation is indoors before you enter the premises after application.
4. Avoid the treated surfaces until they are dry
Indoor-treated surfaces must only be contacted once dry. Outdoors, contacting soil recently treated with termiticides, can be avoided by keeping your pets from digging in or playing on them.
5. Avoid DIY Termite Control
In the case of most DIYs, there is a high chance that the health risks will not be considered, which makes those treatments ineffective or raises health risks. Most people may not be keen on this or may need proper specialized equipment to ensure accurate mixing proportions that are safe to handle.
Hire Professional Termite Control Firm
The best course of action regarding termite control treatments is to choose a good pest control company. Importantly, when selecting, the following are some of the characteristics you may want to look for:
- Licensed pest control company: The pest control firm should be able to guarantee that its technicians are licensed, certified, and trained in safe application practices.
- Environment-friendly Treatments: Most termite control firms offer environmentally friendly treatments using reduced-risk chemicals or organic therapies.
- Transparency: A reputable company should be open in declaring what type of chemical they are using, the associated risks involved, and what you are expected to do before and after the treatment.
Conclusion
The chemicals intended for termite control upon application pose minimal risks, especially when applications are made by professionals who understand how to apply chemicals safely. Therefore, homeowners shouldn’t be worried about their safety and that of their pests if professionals handle the whole termite control exercise.
Lastly, at Eminent, we advise our customers on the proper safety measures for guaranteed peace of mind during and after termite control treatment.
