What Can Schools or Childcare Centers Do to Lower Children’s Exposure to Pesticides and Pest Control?

School or childcare center administrators can work with local public health officials if they experience (or suspect) pesticide drift from spraying in nearby fields/farms.

• Keep schools and centers free of dust and dirt that can contain pesticide residues and practice frequent hand washing with children, especially before eating.
• Do not let children use disinfecting wipes.
• Avoid spraying pesticides especially where there are carpets or soft fabrics.
• Baits/traps/gels leave less residue. Never use total release foggers or bug “bomb” style pesticide applications.
• If professional pest control is used, ensure the company is licensed and ask for the name, ingredients and toxicity of the products they will be using.
  • Preferably hire a company familiar with Integrated Pest Management/least toxic methods.
• For treating lice, over the counter 1% permethrin or pyrethrins can be used with careful attention to instructions.