Storing Pesticides Safely
Safely storing pesticides is important to protect people, pets, and the environment.
- Follow all storage instructions on the pesticide label.
- Don't stockpile. Buy only the amount of pesticide you will need soon.
Where to Store Pesticides
- Store pesticides out of reach of children and pets. If possible, keep pesticides in a locked cabinet in a well-ventilated utility area or garden shed.
- Never store pesticides in cabinets with or near food, animal feed, or medical supplies.
- Store flammable liquids outside your living area and far away from an ignition source such as a furnace, car, grill, or lawn mower.
- Do not store pesticides in places where flooding is possible or where they might spill or leak into wells, drains, ground water, or surface water.
How to Safely Store Pesticides
- Always store pesticides in their original containers with the label, which lists directions for use, ingredients, and first aid steps in case of accidental poisoning.
- Never transfer pesticides to soft drink bottles or other containers. Children or others may mistake them for something to eat or drink.
- Use child-resistant packaging correctly. Child resistant does not mean child-proof, so close the container tightly and keep it out of children's reach.
- If you can't identify the contents of the container, or if you can't tell how old the contents are, follow the advice on safe disposal.