Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we're talking about making yard work safer. Many people use insecticides and pesticides to keep their yards pest and weed-free. While these poisons can be dangerous, doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say they're safe when you use them properly.
Dr. Rebeca Gracia, a toxicologist at UT Southwestern and managing director of the North Texas Poison Center, says you should read the directions on the poison container. Keep poisons in their original containers so they're properly labeled and the directions remain available. Lock the containers away where kids and pets can't get to them. When spraying chemicals, wear protective clothing, don't spray toward people, and avoid the treated area for several hours.
If you have questions or concerns about chemical exposure, contact the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
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May 2006
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