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Good Neighbor Iowa is a statewide public health education initiative managed in partnership with the University of Northern Iowa's Center for Energy and Environmental Education (CEEE). The CEEE at UNI strives to empower Iowans with the knowledge, experiences, tools, and inspiration to create a sustainable, desirable future. Good Neighbor partners with residents and community leaders across Iowa to pledge to be "Good Neighbors", joining a collective of people across Iowa that choose to manage their lawns without pesticides for the health of children and the environment.
Pesticides can be found at home, school, outside, and even on pets. Most commonly in insect repellents, rodent control products, and lawn and garden care products. Because it can be in many places, which means a child's amount of exposure can add up quickly. Poisons are absorbed through the skin, by the mouth, or by breathing sprays, dusts, or vapors. You or your children can be poisoned if you apply or are present during the application of the chemical. Also if you touch contaminated grass, shoes, clothing, lawn furniture, etc., or put contaminated objects or fingers in the mouth.
It is important to protect children from pesticides as they can impact their health during important developmental stages. Pesticide poisoning is especially harmful to children since their brain and nervous systems are at early critical stages of development. Because their bodies are still growing, children have fewer natural defenses and can develop serious health effects if overexposed to pesticides.
The signs of pesticide poisoning may look like the flu. These include: headaches, dizziness/weakness, muscle twitching, difficulty breathing, skin rashes, eye burning, and change in overall level of alertness. If your child shows any of the following signs after coming in contact with a pesticide, call the Poison Control Center's national hotline phone number, 1(800)222-1222, right away.
If you know pesticides are being used: Make sure they are stored in an area that's not accessible by children. Avoid the area if possible and always wash hands after being near the area.
With spring temps rising, we know your children may be outside playing more. We encourage you to play safely by avoiding exposure to pesticides.
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Carrie Kube is the Early Childhood Area Director for Hardin & Marshall counties.