Category: Home Services

What Is Construction and How Can It Affect Your Business?

Jennifer Harrell Home Services , , , , ,

Construction is the building or modification of structures. It covers a broad range of projects from offices to dams and bridges.

A robust construction industry benefits workers and end users alike. It pays relatively high wages to a demographic that would otherwise struggle to find opportunity, and it creates structures that people genuinely need. Contact Pacgen Construction now!

A construction schedule is a valuable tool that informs your team about what to do and when. However, a poorly managed schedule can result in costly reworks, loss of productivity and may even cost your company its reputation.

While traditional methods like a pencil and paper may work for your residential home construction, a commercial project needs advanced scheduling techniques to ensure labor, equipment, materials and resources flow smoothly. The problem is, many contractors use old-fashioned tools such as Outlook and Gmail to create and manage their schedules, which are geared toward events and not resources. This approach often leads to scheduling mishaps, including scheduling gaps, missed deadlines and inaccurate resource allocation.

Unforeseen site conditions, changes to project scope, adverse weather and unexpected material availability are just a few of the challenges that can delay your construction project. However, most of these issues can be proactively addressed during the creation of your project plan by incorporating contingencies and flexibilities.

When a problem arises, the most effective strategy is to identify and respond quickly. For example, if you’re behind schedule due to unforeseen circumstances, you can accelerate your project by fast-tracking tasks that don’t directly impact the critical path. You can also speed up the project’s completion date by adding extra manpower, introducing weekend shifts or employing more efficient equipment. However, be careful not to overdo it. Adding resources will inflate your budget and increase the risk of schedule slips and rework.

The other key to success is clear communication. Regular meetings, document sharing and using construction software can keep all stakeholders informed about the progress of your project and avoid scheduling problems. This also ensures that your team has access to the latest version of your project plan and can resolve any discrepancies.

Another proactive scheduling technique is resource leveling, which focuses on optimizing your project’s resource usage. It begins by identifying the project’s constraints, which are typically people and equipment. Then, you can adjust your project’s scope and deadlines to balance the demands on these resources.

Problems with Fund Management

Construction companies must have free cash to pay for several things semi-regularly, including payments to subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, and employees. It’s also possible that a company could experience delays in receiving payments from customers, and this can cause financial issues for the construction business.

For most construction businesses, a significant portion of success is based on competence in two things: acquiring new customers and getting paid. This is why many growing companies departmentalize sales and finance. While this is a good idea, it can create communication problems that lead to the next problem:

When sales and finance teams are not working together effectively, there is a chance that they will have different goals for a project. This can result in the misunderstanding of project requirements and budgets. This is a common issue for construction projects and can contribute to schedule delays, cost overruns, and other financial problems on the jobsite.

One solution to this problem is to use technology to manage documents, and there are a lot of great options on the market for automation systems, software for different devices, and virtual task boards. However, it’s important to remember that even the best systems will only work if everyone uses them correctly and updates them regularly.

For construction companies that require a level of security for their funds, it’s often best to use a fund control company for large projects. This is an independent third party that manages the distribution of money to the GC and all subcontractors and suppliers on the project. They also typically provide other services such as reviewing the construction budget and work progress inspections. This can help avoid payment delays, but it cannot prevent them completely. It’s still essential to send notices, demand letters, and liens as needed. This will help to keep the project on track and ensure that all parties are protected financially.

Problems with Theft and Vandalism

Theft in construction is a serious problem that affects more than just the financial cost of replacing stolen equipment and materials. When theft occurs, construction timelines and budgets can be severely disrupted. It can also lead to a loss of trust in the project by both clients and employees, as well as damage a company’s reputation.

Construction sites are a thief’s paradise, offering a smorgasbord of high-value items that can easily be resold. From lumber to copper, power tools to heavy equipment, these sites are a hotbed for crime and vandalism. And with the current scarcity of many construction essentials, thieves are more incentivized than ever to snag these items and make quick money.

While it’s difficult to prevent theft, there are a few steps that companies can take to minimize losses. For example, they can establish a security plan that includes fences and guards, and implement record-keeping systems to track inventory and ensure it’s properly safeguarded. Regular site inspections are also crucial to detect potential problems and address them promptly.

Additionally, it’s important to set clear boundaries between different parties on a construction site. This includes between employees, subcontractors and other contractors. This can help to avoid confusion and protect against theft and other forms of property crime.

Another major source of theft is from unauthorized individuals entering the construction site. These individuals can be clients, neighbors, or even criminals looking for a quick buck. It’s critical for companies to secure their sites during off hours, especially if they’re located in an unsafe or remote area.

The effects of theft and vandalism can have severe consequences for a construction project, from delays in the timeline to reduced work quality. It’s also important for companies to work with local law enforcement agencies and the community to develop strategies to reduce these issues. The good news is that these strategies are often affordable and can significantly reduce or eliminate losses. By implementing these strategies, construction businesses can save time and money while ensuring the success of their projects.

Problems with Material Sourcing

Material procurement is a significant part of construction project management. It involves a complex process with many moving parts, including planning, supplier management, and sustainability. This isn’t easy, and the smallest oversight can cause major problems. In addition, the construction industry is constantly changing, which can make it difficult to predict future needs. Getting the right materials at the right time is crucial.

The journey from the manufacturer to the job site has a huge impact on a project’s carbon footprint. The trucks, cargo ships, and planes that move building materials across countries and oceans consume fuel and produce emissions. These environmental costs can add up quickly, especially if the cost of fuel is increasing rapidly. This is why it’s important to work with suppliers who can provide sustainable materials that are both safe for the environment and cost-effective.

While the majority of construction materials are purchased from local suppliers, some are imported from abroad. When this is the case, there may be issues with customs clearance or other delays. These problems can add up to a substantial delay in delivering the required materials to the job site. In some cases, it may be necessary to have backup suppliers in place so that the project doesn’t fall behind schedule.

As well as dealing with supply chain issues, construction companies must also keep track of their inventory. This is essential for ensuring that they don’t run out of key materials before the completion of a project. Construction firms can mitigate this problem by establishing relationships with multiple suppliers and ensuring that the project has a flexible budget for unexpected purchases.

Keeping accurate records on material quantities is an excellent way to reduce the risk of running out of supplies. This can also protect the project’s profit margins by avoiding over-ordering and paying extra for storage. The best way to do this is to regularly check prices and follow market trends, and if possible, buy the materials when they’re at their lowest price point.

The most important thing to remember when it comes to material sourcing is that effective communication is key. It’s vital to ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page regarding the details of the purchase, delivery times, and other information. This prevents confusion and allows everyone to work together effectively.

Simple Air Conditioning Repairs You Can Do Yourself

Jaime Melton Home Services , , , , , ,

The simplest AC repair involves clearing up a clog or defrosting the evaporator coil. An HVAC technician can use a shop vac to dislodge whatever’s causing the problem and return the unit to working condition.

Timely air conditioning repair prevents energy waste and ensures optimum performance. It also enhances comfort by eliminating hot and cold spots and temperature fluctuations. Contact Air Conditioning Repair Orlando now!

If your air conditioning seems to turn on and shut off repeatedly, it’s called short cycling. This problem puts unnecessary stress on your system’s components, reduces energy efficiency, and drives up your utility bills. It can also lead to a much shorter lifespan for your AC unit. Fortunately, the problem is easy to diagnose and repair.

Sometimes, the issue is as simple as replacing an air filter. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dirt and dust. This impedes the flow of air through the system, which causes the compressor to overheat and shut off before completing its cycle. It’s important to check and change your air filter frequently.

Another common cause of short cycling is a frozen evaporator coil. When this happens, you need to turn off your system and allow it to thaw before turning it back on. A professional can determine if your coils are frozen and, if so, can help you get them back to working condition.

A faulty thermostat is a frequent cause of short cycling, too. If it’s in direct sunlight or close to a heat-generating appliance, it may register the room temperature as cooler than it is, signaling your AC to shut off before it’s had time to cool your house. It’s also possible your thermostat has simply stopped working altogether. An HVAC expert can help you replace your thermostat.

Your compressor motor may be starting to wear out, which can also cause short cycling. The constant start-and-stop operation places additional stress on the system’s components, which can speed up the rate at which they wear out. In many cases, it makes more sense to replace the compressor than to keep repairing an older model.

Finally, your ductwork might be leaking. This can make the compressor work harder to maintain proper temperatures, which can cause it to overheat and shut off prematurely. A HVAC technician can locate and seal any leaks in your ductwork to prevent this issue.

Smells from the Vents

While the crisp air flowing from your AC vents provides a refreshing summertime oasis, funky smells coming from them indicate various problems lurking beneath the surface. Each odor typically indicates a specific issue and requires the attention of a professional for resolution. Determining which odors are present helps you to work toward a solution more efficiently.

A musty odor emanating from the vents may indicate that mold or mildew are developing inside the system. Moisture accumulation in drain pans, drip lines or evaporator coils is the primary source of these odors, as it encourages fungus and other growths. The best course of action is to turn off the AC and call for a technician.

If the odor of burning cigarettes is wafting from your vents, it’s almost certainly the result of someone smoking in the home or nearby. Cigarette smoke residue builds up in the evaporator coil and is circulated around the house when the AC system runs. If a burning smell is present, you should turn off the unit and contact a HVAC technician immediately to prevent potential fire damage to your equipment.

An unpleasant rotten egg smell may mean that an animal has died in the ductwork or around the air conditioning unit itself. Small animals and birds sometimes make their way into air ducts for shelter during winter, where they can die. This causes an unpleasant rotten egg odor that is circulated throughout the home when the air conditioner turns on. A professional will usually need to remove the dead animal and seal the ducts.

The smell of raw sewage can also come from your air vents, especially when the AC is on. This usually means a backed-up sewer line or ruptured sewer vent pipe is close enough to your vents to allow the smell to drift into your ductwork and be dispersed throughout your home. This is a serious problem that requires the immediate attention of a plumber or professional HVAC technician.

A strong vinegar odor can also come from your vents. This usually means that your evaporator coil is in need of cleaning, and it can be accomplished by having a technician clean the coil and replace the filter.

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters aren’t just meant to protect the internal components of your HVAC system. They’re also responsible for filtering out dust, germs, pet dander, and other airborne debris. If your air filter becomes clogged, it will no longer be able to do its job properly. Instead, the clogged filter will allow all of those contaminates to be blown back into your home.

A dirty air filter can lead to a number of cooling problems. It can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, which will further hamper your system’s ability to cool your house effectively. It can also restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder to keep you comfortable. This extra strain can lead to premature wear and tear, reducing your system lifespan.

In addition, a clogged air filter will cause your system to overheat. It’s important to change your air filter regularly if you want to avoid overheating and other air conditioning repair issues.

If you check your air filter and it’s visible clogged with dirt, you should replace it right away. This simple, inexpensive task will save you from major cooling repairs down the road.

Another sign it’s time to change your air filter is when you notice a buildup of visible dust around the vents. This is a sure sign that the filter has stopped functioning effectively and is contributing to increased dust levels in your living spaces. This dust can then become a health hazard for your family members who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions.

It is recommended that you change your air filter every month. This is a quick, easy and affordable maintenance task that can be easily accomplished in just five minutes. If you have pets or many people living in your home, you may need to change the filter more frequently.

Older Systems

Generally, HVAC systems have a lifespan of 10-15 years. After that point, they start to break down and require more frequent repairs than a newer system would. This is normal, and it’s important to have a maintenance plan in place so that your HVAC can last as long as possible.

However, if you’re finding yourself scheduling repair services frequently, it may be time to consider upgrading your HVAC system to something more advanced. Each time you make a repair, it’s money that could be better spent on a newer unit that will pay for itself over the lifespan of the system.

Another sign that your HVAC system is nearing the end of its life is if you notice an increase in humidity. Humidity issues can be a result of many factors, such as dirty evaporator coils or thermostat problems. However, it can also be a sign that your AC is too old and no longer capable of dehumidifying the air in your home.

Finally, an older HVAC system can become prone to leaks. Leaks are a big problem because they allow for the loss of refrigerant. This causes the system to work harder, which results in higher cooling bills.

If you find that your HVAC is leaking, it’s crucial to have the system cleaned. This will prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and other debris that can cause respiratory issues. In addition, having the ductwork cleaned will help with circulating clean air throughout your home.

Older systems can suffer from several other issues that require professional air conditioning repair. If you’re experiencing a strange noise, smells, or varying temperatures in your home, it’s important to have the system inspected by a professional. A professional service technician can recommend the right solution to restore your comfort and lower your energy costs.

Septic Tank Services

Jennifer Harrell Home Services , , , , , , , , , ,

A well-functioning septic system is vital for health, safety, and property value. Neglecting septic tank service increases the risk of a toxic wastewater spill or system backup, which can infiltrate drinking water wells and contaminate the ground.

A field service software solution helps septic professionals keep records of pumping, inspections, maintenance, and repairs in one central location. It also streamlines scheduling and customer management to increase business efficiency. Click Septic Tank Services Near Me to learn more.

Septic tanks provide a great alternative to centralized wastewater treatment and disposal. They’re easy to maintain, offer on-site water treatment, and are environmentally friendly. However, the initial cost of septic tank installation can be expensive. To minimize the upfront costs, it’s best to hire a professional septic tank installer.

A qualified septic tank installer will understand all aspects of the system, including the necessary piping and underground excavation needed to install the tank. They will also be familiar with local codes and regulations to ensure the tank is installed correctly. Hiring a professional will also eliminate any potential legal headaches down the road.

The septic tank is an underground storage device that holds sewage waste until anaerobic bacteria can treat it. Solids settle in the bottom of the tank, where they are broken down into sludge. Lighter liquids, such as fats and oils, rise to the surface and form a layer of scum. The septic tank’s distribution box then evenly distributes the partially treated wastewater to a series of trenches in the absorption field, where it filters through the soil.

Regular septic tank maintenance is key to preventing problems with your system. Have your tank pumped out every three to five years to remove accumulated solids and sludge. This will prevent the system from overworking and will prolong its lifespan. In addition, be mindful of what goes down your drains and don’t flush baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, or grease. Also, be careful about water usage and consider installing low-flow fixtures to reduce the amount of water you use.

It’s a good idea to map out the location of your septic tank and other system components, or mark them with permanent stakes. This will help you avoid damaging the system when performing yard work or other home projects. It’s also important to keep your septic tank and absorption field area free from obstructions, such as fences or structures. And always check for wet areas around the tank, which could indicate that water is not draining properly from the system.

Septic Tank Pumping

Septic tanks store sewage waste for homes without access to public sewer systems. These septic systems have two main components: the septic tank and the absorption field (or soil absorption field).

A septic system allows liquid wastewater to pass through it and into the soil, where it is biologically treated by the surrounding grass, shrubs and plants. This process eliminates the need to transport sewage waste to municipal waste treatment plants, reducing environmental and health risks for your home and family.

The septic tank itself is an underground storage container for sewage waste that is periodically pumped out by a professional septic tank service. The amount of septage that the septic system takes in determines how frequently the septic tank needs to be pumped out. A septic tank service will inspect and measure the tank layers to assess how much septage is in the septic tank and then pump it out as needed.

Ideally, homeowners should have their septic tanks pumped every three to five years. You can help extend the time between septic tank pumping services by making sure that only human waste and toilet paper are flushed. Also, if you have a small family, it may be necessary to reduce the amount of water used in your home, thereby decreasing the amount of septic tank waste that accumulates.

In addition to having your septic tank pumped regularly, it is importan” to ensur” that the septic system and the absorption field are properly maintained. This is the only way to prevent clogs, overflows, and other costly problems in the future.

To do this, you should regularly check that there are no leaks in the septic system and ensure that the soil surrounding the tank isn’t too saturated with sewage waste. You should also keep track of when the last time you had your septic tank pumped was and schedule regular maintenance appointments with a professional septic tank service provider.

Make it easier for septic tank service professionals to work on your system by ensuring that the tank and inspection ports are not covered with plants or dirt. You can also help facilitate the septic tank cleaning and repair process by making a mahome’sour septic system, including the location of the septic tank, the ports, the distribution box, and the drainfield.

Septic Tank Repair

When a homeowner notices raw sewage in their yard, a foul smell in their home or toilets that take a long time to flush, it’s a sign that the septic tank needs to be inspected and pumped. It’s also a good idea to schedule regular septic tank services, including pumping and cleaning, to keep the system running smoothly.

Your septic system uses pipes to carry household waste and wastewater from the septic tank to the drain field or absorption zone. If these pipes become broken or clogged, it can lead to major problems and expensive repairs. You should hire a professional septic thome’spair service right away when you notice any signs of broken or clogged pipes.

During septic tank repairs, experts may replace parts like the septic tank baffles, motor or walls of the tank. These parts usually wear down over time due to normal use or the corrosive nature of septic tank contents. During your appointment, a septic tank repair company will examine the interior of your tank and look for any signs of excessive wear and tear on these components.

The sit’sof your septic tank can also affect its lifespan and efficiency. If you hdon’t large family or host frequent parties, you may need to upgradisn’ta larger septic tank. A septic tank expert can help you determine the right sizit’sr your home and install it correctly.

Another common septic tank repair is a clog in the effluent filter. If you notice sewage leaking from the bottom of your septic tank or standing water in your yard, there’s likely a clog in the inlet baffle that needs to be repaired.

If you have an aerobic system that relies on aeration to break down the shome’sin your septic tank, it might need to be replaced. The aerator usually wears down after years of continuous operation and might need to be replaced. It could also be clogged with larger solids, such as wipes or feminine hygiene products, that twist around the aerator and cause it to burn out.

Septic Tank Replacement

Septic systems remove waste from homes and return the sewage to the soil. They last for decades, but eventually, you’ll need to replace them with new ones. Whether it’s replacing the tank or the entire system, you need to know when it’s time to do so. There are several signs to look out for that may indicate it’s time for a replacement.

The septic tank is the primary component of any septic system. It is made of concrete, fiberglass or steel and is usually buried underground in the yard. It collects all household waste and provides a safe environment for heavy solids, which settle at the bottom of the tank and are broken down by bacteria to form sludge. Lighter solids, such as fats and grease, float to the surface and are pushed into the drain field by the distribution box.

You should choose a tank that is appropriate for the number of people living in your home. A small, 500-gallon tank is usually enough for a one- to three-bedroom house, while larger homes may require a larger system. You also need to consider how much water your family uses. An excessive amount of water use can cause the septic tank to fill quickly and overflow.

When you choose to install a new septic tank, it’s important to hire a professional service. Experienced septic contractors will explain the process and answer any questions you have before beginning work. They’ll also help you obtain any nehome’sy permits and ensure that the job is up to code.

Once the septic tank is in place, your contractor will test it to make sure it’s functioning properly. They’ll also pump the old septic tank to empty it and clean up any debris that’s left behind. They’ll also inspect the surrounding soil and regrade it, if necessary.

The cost of installing a new septic tank will vary. The material the tank is made of will significantly affect its upfront costs, while the size of the system and additional repairs to the drain field will impact the overall price. However, if your existing tank is leaking or your leach field is plugged, it’s likely that a replacement is necessary.

How to Prevent Termite Infestations in Your Home

Jennifer Harrell Home Services , , , , ,

Accurate pest identification is the first step in controlling pests. This step is essential because pest management programs are more effective and cost-efficient when the type of pest is known.

Control objectives include prevention, suppression, and eradication. Control methods must be chosen carefully to minimize harm to humans, domestic animals, and the pest’s natural enemies. Contact Pest Control Simi Valley CA now!

Identifying pests is a critical first step in any pest control program. Accurate pest identification helps determine what tools, cultural practices, or pesticides are needed to manage the pest effectively. Often, precise pest identification requires the assistance of an expert or sending a specimen to a specialized laboratory. In other cases, a simple approach is possible.

Start by carefully collecting a sample of the pest in a clean container. Note the pest’s physical characteristics, such as size, color, and number of legs. Compare the pest’s physical characteristics to those listed in an online or printed insect identification guide to help identify the pest.

Look for signs of infestation, such as droppings, webs, egg masses, and castor bean pods. Pests may also leave less obvious signs, such as footprints resembling a smear rather than a clear footprint. Regularly cleaning areas in the workplace can help to minimise the attraction of pests, especially if crumbs or other food sources are removed from the workspace. Keeping the workplace free of clutter, regularly sealing and closing entry points and shutting windows can also help to minimise pest infestations.

Once a pest is identified, it is important to know the life cycle and habits of that particular pest. This allows an effective plan of attack to be developed. Pesticides are most effective when used at the proper time and place in the pest’s life cycle, so accurate identification is critical to pesticide effectiveness.

The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program is a scientifically based pest management system that combines common sense with a detailed understanding of each pest’s behavior, needs and environment. Using this information, the IPM program is able to develop and implement effective and environmentally sound methods of pest control. IPM programs are based on the principles of preventing pests or their damage, encouraging beneficial insects and organisms, monitoring and responding to pest activity, and making use of biological, physical and chemical controls. An important aspect of IPM is accurate pest identification, which is the key to successful pest management.

Pest Prevention

Pest prevention is an ongoing effort that reduces the number of pests to a level where they are no longer causing unacceptable harm. It can be achieved with a combination of techniques that may include exclusion, habitat manipulation, cultural practices and the use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are used only as a last resort when other methods have been tried and do not work. Pest prevention is an important part of integrated pest management (IPM) which can be used in urban, agricultural, and wildland and natural areas.

The best way to prevent a pest infestation is to keep it from happening in the first place. This involves removing the food, water, and shelter that attracts them. It includes cleaning practices that don’t invite pests into the building and keeping up on maintenance tasks like repairing leaky pipes. It also means preventing them from entering the building by eliminating easy entry points like open windows and doors, tightening screens, and denying access by eliminating roosting sites. Lastly, it includes denying them water by removing puddles and making sure trash receptacles are kept tightly closed and cleaned regularly.

Pest control should be a team effort, with everyone involved in the business taking an active role. That means establishing training for all employees to teach them the basics of pest identification and monitoring and how they can contribute to the success of the program. It also means establishing protocols for inspecting incoming deliveries to make sure they don’t introduce pests into the facility. It also means educating clients about the importance of their involvement in a successful pest prevention program and how they can help.

The most effective pest prevention strategies are those that take into account the pest’s life cycle and needs as a member of a larger ecosystem. Educating yourself about the lifespans and behaviors of different pests can help you predict when they will be most problematic, as can understanding what conditions favor their presence. Continuous pests are usually quite predictable, while sporadic or potential pests may be more difficult to anticipate.

Pest Control Methods

Pest control methods are the techniques and tools used to manage pests. They may be physical, biological, or chemical. Good pest management usually involves a combination of these approaches.

Physical pest control methods keep pests from entering a property or damaging a crop by blocking their access to food, water and shelter. These include removing or destroying nests, sealing cracks in walls and windows, and preventing weeds from growing near crops. It also includes scouting to locate pests and assessing damage and environmental conditions. It’s important to note that scouting and monitoring don’t necessarily mean that pest control action is required. The purpose is to determine when pest populations or damage will reach unacceptable levels, esthetic or economic, before taking action.

Biological pest control uses natural organisms to reduce or eliminate unwanted species without harmful effects on humans, other plants or animals. It involves finding and releasing the organisms that naturally prey on the pests, then carefully monitoring them to make sure they are effective. This process can be time consuming and requires extensive knowledge of the biology of the pest, potential interactions between the enemy and its prey, and possible unintended consequences of the introduction of a new organism into an ecosystem.

Chemical pest control methods kill or repel the pests by introducing substances into the environment that are toxic to them. These substances often are derived from chemicals that occur naturally in the soil, such as microorganisms, or from plant extracts. These substances also can be produced synthetically. They may be applied topically, sprayed in the air, or injected into the ground. The application of these substances is highly regulated because of concerns about health and environmental impacts.

IPM is a method of pest control that professionals use to minimize the need for chemicals and help prevent infestations from occurring in the first place. Preventing pests from invading a home or business can be as simple as keeping the trash out of the kitchen, storing food away from infestation points, and cleaning regularly to remove food sources. This is an especially useful technique for people living in areas where it is illegal to purchase or use pesticides.

Pesticides

Generally speaking, pesticides are chemicals that control insects, weeds, rodents or fungus. They can be applied to living plants or soil and are usually formulated in liquid, solid and gaseous forms. They come in many different formulations, and are often grouped into “families” because they have similar chemical properties or act on the target pest in a similar way (for example, the organochlorines cause insect paralysis by disrupting nerve-impulse transmission). The type of pesticide used depends on the problem: insecticides reduce crop destruction and contamination; herbicides eliminate weeds; fungicides prevent rot; rodenticides control rodents and other vertebrates that can destroy crops and contaminate food.

When selecting a pesticide, read the label carefully. Select the least-toxic product available to control the problem and follow all directions and precautions exactly. Do not apply more than recommended, as this will waste the pesticide, your time and money while increasing the risk of plant injury or environmental exposure to other organisms. Do not store leftover pesticide solutions; they are susceptible to quality changes at high or low temperatures and settling out, and may pose a health risk if ingested by pets or people.

If you do use a pesticide, keep your children and pets away from treated areas until the spray has had a chance to dry. Also, take care not to apply pesticides to windy days so that the spray does not move into unintended areas. Finally, always rinse your hands and equipment after handling any pesticide. Do not eat, drink or smoke after applying a pesticide and wash clothing that was worn to apply pesticides separately from regular laundry.

Keep your garden and home clean to discourage pests from seeking shelter and breeding. Remove leaf litter, stacks of firewood, and other clutter that could provide hiding places for insects or rodents. Regularly change the water in birdbaths, and drain and clean puddles where mosquitoes breed.

Identify the pest problem and learn how to control it without using pesticides, and then only use them when prevention and other non-chemical controls have failed. Consult your local university Extension office to get assistance with identification and selection of control methods and pesticides that will be effective and safe for humans and the environment.