Eugene Oregon Personal Injury Attorneys

Pesticides: Danger to Children in Schools and Homes

Pesticides have become the first choice for many people when they see spiders, mice or insects. Even when properly applied, pesticides can still affect people. Asthma and other respiratory problems related to pesticides are increasing. Pesticides can end up in our lakes and rivers, killing the fish and polluting the water.

Of special concern are the areas where our children learn and play—schools, parks and playgrounds. By 2012, schools will be required to have a management plan that includes alternatives to pesticides.

The Corson & Johnson Law Firm is currently working with the Northwest Center for Alternative Pesticides (NCAP) to support legislation that puts children’s health first by requiring the use of safer products at schools, parks and playgrounds. Because of their size, immaturity and sense of adventure, children face the greatest health risks from exposure to pesticides.

The primary focus of NCAP is to inform and educate communities about the dangers of pesticide use and assist in the process of change to ensure children are no longer exposed to these dangers at school. NCAP has started a test project in several school districts including Bethel that we hope will become a statewide model. The project will work  directly with superintendents, groundskeepers and maintenance staff to develop and implement effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM)  policies. IPM emphasizes pest prevention and non-chemical pest control techniques instead of harmful pesticides. IPM policies have already reduced pesticide use in schools and public buildings by more than 70 percent.

A 2007 study of more than 29 school districts found that nearly half were in violation of legal requirements relating to safe pest management. Three districts even had illegal pesticides on the premises. NCAP recently discovered the use of rat bait in an Oregon school within reach of kindergarten students.

Where Our Children Learn & Play Pesticide Fact Sheets

• Unthinkable Risks: How Children Are Exposed and Harmed When Pesticides Are Used at School
• Ten Steps to Pesticide-free Parks: How to Create Healthy Public Spaces in Your Community
• Pesticide-free parks: It’s time!

For more information about the dangers of pesticides and what you can do to help, visit the NCAP website.