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California Environmental Protection Agency

Department of Pesticide Regulation

Date: June 25, 2002
Web site: www.cdpr.ca.gov

Media Contact:
Glenn Brank,
(916) 445-3974

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DPR WARNS AGAINST MISUSING 'BUG BOMBS'

SACRAMENTO -- The California Department of Pesticide Regulation today warned against the careless use of insect foggers and offered safety tips for consumers who may use foggers and other pesticides this summer.

Foggers, often called "bug bombs", may create a hazard to people and property if label precautions are ignored. In April 2001, fumes from a gas pilot light ignited 18 foggers in a small San Diego apartment, ripping open the ceiling and tearing kitchen cabinets from the walls. A week earlier, a Los Angeles woman sustained burns when 30 foggers exploded in her home, blowing off the roof. Such incidents typically occur during warm weather when roaches, fleas, and other indoor pest populations suddenly increase, and fogger users fail to follow instructions on the product labels.

"There's a reason why people often refer to these devices as 'bug bombs'," said DPR Director Paul E. Helliker. "Foggers are simple to use, but they contain highly flammable materials, and consumers should read and follow label directions to the letter."

Fogger explosions may occur about once a year, on average, but other accidents also result from misuse. From 1993 to 2000, DPR reviewed about 50 cases with suspected or confirmed injuries from foggers. Most involved respiratory, eye, or skin irritation from overexposure to fumes. Some victims ignored application or re-entry instructions. Others were unaware that someone was using a fogger in the vicinity.

In typical residential applications, label directions call for use of only one or two 8-ounce cans of fogger. Labels also direct users to turn off ignition sources such as gas pilot lights and electrical appliances (such as air conditioners and refrigerators) that may produce a spark when they cycle on and off, because the propellants used in most foggers are flammable. Users may want to consult their natural gas or propane supplier before beginning a fogger application.

Here are some other DPR safety tips for summer:

  • To prevent insect stings and bites, first consider non-chemical alternatives such as screens, netting, long sleeves, slacks, and closed shoes. When using insect repellents, start with lower-strength products to minimize the chance of a reaction to the chemical.
  • Keep pesticides away from children and pets by storing products in a locked cabinet or shed.
  • Remove pets, children, and their toys from areas to be treated, ventilate properly and follow directions on re-entry intervals.
  • When using pesticides in your garden, never dump "leftovers" down storm drains or risk runoff by over-watering the treated area.
  • To choose the best control strategy, correctly identify the pest. Always read the label before you buy a pesticide, then before you use it, and follow all instructions to the letter.

DPR also reminds consumers that they can prevent pest problems before they occur, and often avoid the use of pesticides, by using IPM -- integrated pest management. IPM emphasizes natural techniques that control pests and encourage beneficial plants and animals to thrive. Simple pest control tips including removing easy pest access to food (crumbs on the floor, food-filled plates on the countertop) and water (pet water dishes, leaky pipes, basins under houseplants).

IPM information and consumer safety tips on foggers, insect repellents, and other topics may be found at www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/dept/factshts/factmenu.htm. Most fact sheets are available in both English- and Spanish-language versions.

One of six departments and boards within the California Environmental Protection Agency, DPR regulates pesticides to protect people and the environment.



FLEX YOUR POWER. To meet California's energy challenge, DPR urges businesses and consumers to conserve. For a list of simple ways that you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our Web site www.cdpr.ca.gov.

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