Safety with Lawn Herbicides

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Herbicides are used to control weeds in lawns. They can potentially be dangerous when used or stored in your home. Careful handling is necessary to ensure the safety of those applying a herbicide and those exposed to it in their environment.

Always read the label before buying or using a herbicide. Use the herbicide only for the purpose listed on the label. Signal words are used to indicate the toxicity of many products used around the home. Caution, warning and danger are the signal words you may find on the label. Products with caution on the label are the least toxic. The signal word warning on the label indicates the material is moderately toxic. And products with the word danger indicate they may be highly toxic. Read the label to find out what problems may occur if the material is used improperly or if there is an accident. Keep herbicides out of the reach of children, pets and irresponsible people. Herbicides should be stored away from food and feed. Always store in the original containers.

Care should be taken when applying a herbicide. Do not apply more than the specified amount. Overdoses could harm you or the environment. Keep children and pets away from treated areas to ensure their safety.

Plan ahead and purchase only in quantities that can be used efficiently within the same year. Excess herbicides in storage may lose their effectiveness.

By reading and following the label directions and using the amount of herbicide suggested. You will minimize the potential for personal, property, or environmental damage and maximize the effectiveness and return for your investment.

Tom Fowler, FowlerT@missouri.edu
Regional Specialist, Agriculture and Horticulture
Buchanan County, MO
University of Missouri Extension