The threat is a real one. According to federal government statistics, in 1995 nearly 100,000 children nationwide were poisoned or exposed to household pesticides and chlorine. Others belong on this list as well. Since you probably have some of these items in your home right now, it pays to make sure thay are being used and stored properly. According to the EPA, almost half of the homes with children under age five have at least one pesticide that is stored in an unlocked cabinet that is less than four feet off the ground.
Nobody wants to share an apartment with bugs or rats.
But, these products must be used responsibly and must be carefully stored. According to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, it is absolutely imperative that all pesticides be used in the manner set forth on the product label. Some pesticides should not be used near food, some require ventilation. Some require that you leave your house for a period after use. These are not just suggestions.