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Health 52
Info Tip:
Fertilizers and Pesticides
As gardens, lawns, parks and golf courses
get prepped for summer, remember: the more lush and green, the more likely
it's chemically treated.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has guidelines regarding nitrates
used in fertilizer because these chemicals can seep into the water system,
causing severe illness, especially in children.
Some pesticides, used to eliminate or control insects and weeds, also pose
health risks. Children are especially vulnerable because their immune
systems aren't fully developed, and because they are more likely to play
outside, and crawl on the grass.
If you're using a chemical fertilizer, bug or weed killers at your home,
never exceed recommended limits. Don't smoke, eat or drink while applying
chemicals since the particles may be transferred from hand to mouth.
Don't spray on a windy day, and consider safety goggles to protect your eyes
and soft contact lenses, which may absorb chemicals.
Wash your hands immediately and wash your clothing separately. Organic
methods to encourage healthy growth and eliminate bugs often require more
work, but can be effective at maintaining a yard that is beautiful and
healthy.
Sources: U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, North Dakota State University Agriculture and University
Extension, Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service
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