Older rodenticides can contain highly toxic products like arsenic, white phosphorus, strychnine and thallium. Even a small taste of any of these substances may cause serious injury or even death. Do not use these products, and check with your local environmental or solid waste agency or health department on how to dispose of them.
Now, only four types of EPA-approved chemicals can be used in rodenticides: anticoagulants, bromethalin, cholecalciferol and zinc phosphide. Household products have low concentrations of these chemicals. Consumed in certain quantities, they can still be dangerous to humans and pets.
Please note: Exercise extreme caution while handling modern rodenticides. They are considered “safer” than those of decades ago but are still poisonous.
Want to keep rodents out without using rodenticides? Start by patching any cracks or holes around the foundation of your home. You can also set up traps that don’t use chemicals, like sticky glue boards with a non-toxic adhesive.
IPC is here for you. Call us at 1-800-222-1222 if you have questions or suspect you or someone else has been exposed to a rodenticide.
For general questions about pesticides and pesticide safety, call the National Pesticide Information Center at 1-800-858-7378.