Can Termites Poison You?

Termites can be an annoyance to homeowners. They are small insects that are found in the soil and wood. They are notoriously difficult to kill. The most effective way to get rid of termites is to hire a professional exterminator. But there are some do-it-yourself options, too.

If you suspect that you have a termite infestation, you can use a natural termite killer. A salt solution can be injected into infected areas. Another technique is to sprinkle boric acid on the infested area. This is a natural pesticide that works slowly to reduce the termite population.

You can also try a termite bait. Baits are made from paper or poisonous wood and are placed around the perimeter of your home. The poison attracts foraging termites and they carry it back to the colony.

Various chemicals have been used to kill termites, but the most common is chlordane. It was banned by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1978 after studies suggested that it could cause cancer in mice. It is considered by some to be more dangerous than termites.

Other serious termite treatments include liquid or foam termiticides. You can also use natural treatments, such as beneficial nematodes.

If you are still unsure, you can consult your state’s pesticide regulatory agency. They will give you a product label that tells you how to use it. You will need to administer the pesticide correctly to avoid unnecessary exposure to the insect.

You should never apply a pesticide product without the proper protection label. The dangers are based on the level of infestation and the product’s active ingredient.