TOM: Sun and fun may go hand in hand, but summer insects are always close behind, which is why now is a good time to make sure the pesticides you pick aren’t hurting you, too. Hi, I’m Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I’m Leslie Segrete with today’s Money Pit home improvement minute.
TOM: Maybe you’ve heard this story. A family of four became seriously ill on vacation to the U.S. Virgin Islands when their luxury resort was treated with methyl bromide, a pesticide the EPA prohibits for indoor use.
LESLIE: Yeah. It’s a scary reminder that pesticides are, well, poison, and can hurt you also. Now, natural repellents like mint, lemongrass, basil, or even mothballs can also be effective against pests, and it gives you peace of mind.
TOM: Or you can avoid pesticide worries altogether by keeping bugs away in the first place. For example, get rid of standing water, which attracts mosquitoes, and reduce the need for weed killers by mowing your lawn frequently and at a little taller height than you’re used to. I’m Tom Kraeutler. For more Money Pit home improvement tips, visit Moneypit.com.
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