Using pesticides safely

The federal and provincial governments have safety standards and regulations on using pesticides. This includes the storage and disposal of pesticides. Learn how to protect yourself, pets and beneficial insects and plants in your garden.

Pesticides should be purchased from a licensed vendor and many pesticides should only be applied by those with training.

Around pets

Always follow the instructions on the pesticide container.

If you think your pet was exposed to pesticides and is showing symptoms of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea or seizures contact your veterinarian immediately. Provide the pesticide name and container to your veterinarian if you have it.

Around bees

Some insecticides are highly toxic to bees. Many people keep bees in urban areas where pesticides are applied. Use pesticides only when necessary and never apply pesticides when the wind could cause pesticides to drift away from the treatment site.

Always follow the instructions on the label. For example, a pesticide label might say: "This product is highly toxic to bees exposed to direct treatment, drift or residues on blooming plants."

Around schools

The Pesticide Drift Management guide (PDF, 4.3MB) is a resource that describes best management practices for growers, school administrators and parents to minimize the risk of pesticide spray drift onto school grounds that are in proximity to agricultural activities.

Disposal of pesticides

Minimize the amount of pesticide that must be disposed of by buying only what you need. Make sure to follow the correct procedure for disposing of household or commercial pesticides.

• Safely dispose of your unwanted pesticides