Ways to protect your children

9. Use Safer Lawn Care Products - Protect the Children Playing in Your Yard.

Every year people in the United States use 4.5 billion pounds of chemicals to control insects, rodents, and weeds. Billions of additional pounds of fertilizers and other chemicals are used to keep lawns looking healthy. Many of the products are believed to be harmful to human health and can be especially harmful to children.

Steps You Can Take:

• Always store lawn care products in a locked cabinet or garden shed. Children should never have the opportunity to accidentally ingest lawn care products. Child-proof safety latches and locks are available at any hardware store or home improvement center.

• Read labels carefully and follow all directions. Wear protective gloves, goggles, and masks if directed by the label. Only apply the amount of chemicals specified. Failing to follow directions carefully can be dangerous to you, your children, and your pets. Some products, such as potting soil, may contain items from sources not appropriate for all applications.

• Consider limiting chemical use. Many people are deciding that the health of their children and pets requires additional precautions. As a result, they are significantly reducing or eliminating their use of chemical-based insecticides, pesticides, and fertilizers.