Are pesticides worth it?????

From the time I was little, I was terrified of any kind of poison. Truly terrified!

Even now I don't allow any pesticides in my home - imagine my dad (who absolutely HATES mosquitoes) - not being able to use bug spray :).

It seems like I'm not totally out of my mind what my fears are concerned....

Recent research suggests that the incidents of birth defects are higher where pregnant moms are exposed to pesticides (e.g. moms living close to crops where pesticides are used).

Pesticide exposure is linked to a variety of cancers (breast, lymphoma, brain, lung, etc).
Research suggests that impaired immune function can be attributed to pesticide exposure.
Hyperactivity is also linked to pesticide exposure.

OK - so it seems that the use of pesticides is BAD.

But what do you do about "them"?

1. "Prevention is better than the cure" - do not attract them to your home. Keep your home clean of crumbs, carbage and standing water - as bugs are attracted to these.
2. Try and use natural pesticides as far as possible.
3. If you use pesticides - BE RESPONSIBLE (put in a safe place, use gloves, keep kids away).

Safe alternatives:
Cockroaches - use a 50% sugar and 50% baking soda mix, place it in their path and within 2 weeks you will see a reduction in numbers.
Mosquitoes - There is a variety of citronella products available (candles, spray, etc). To prevent mosquitoes from breeding in rain barrels add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the water.
Ants - pour apple cider vinegar down entrance holes to the nest. Use equal parts of sugar and baking powder. Place around ant infested area and nests.
Snails - pour beer into a saucer and place in the garden - they are attracted to the beer, and will drown when attempting to drink it (drink the rest yourself!)