Kids’ Safety
As parents, we try our best to keep our kids healthy, happy and safe. We want to protect them from as much as we can, including the potential harm and annoyance bugs may pose. And yet, choosing whether to use an insect control or repellent product can be a tough decision. Do we really need them? And if so, who’s making sure they’re safe to use on our kids?
As with many of the choices we make for our children, a common sense solution to deterring and controlling bugs is likely the best route. The responsible use of federally registered insect control products is one option, especially when combined with smart preventative measures to help keep the bugs away.
If you’re wondering about what government and industry checks are in place to ensure your family’s safety, the following information should help you feel more confident about the insect control products you choose with your children in mind.
Strict checks and balances to protect our children
It’s reassuring to know that Canada has one of the most rigorous regulatory systems in the world to protect all Canadians, including children. Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) is the federal government agency responsible for the regulation of pest control products in Canada.
Throughout this rigorous evaluation process careful consideration of all groups of people is taken into account, including the possible health effects on more sensitive groups such as children and infants. Only products that pose no unacceptable risks to our health are registered.
Could my child get cancer from insect control or repellent products?
Knowing that our children are growing and have immune systems that are still forming, the link between childhood cancers and the use of substances like insect control products is a common concern for many parents.
When dealing with cancer risk assessment, the PMRA uses a complex process that utilizes animal toxicology testing data and daily lifetime exposure estimates. This type of assessment is also used by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the United States EPA and other government and academic organizations.
After studied and careful analysis, the PMRA only registers insect control products that have been proven not to pose an unacceptable risk of cancer.
What you need to know about DEET and your kids
DEET is the active ingredient found in many insect repellent products on the market today. It effectively repels biting insects such as mosquitoes and ticks that can spread disease. DEET has been subjected to more scientific and toxicological scrutiny than any other repellent. Products containing DEET can be used safely and effectively when used according to label directions.
The PMRA re-evaluated personal insect repellents containing DEET in 2002 and established new guidelines regarding the use of DEET on children and adults. The following guidelines were developed with the help of the Canadian Pediatric Society:
On Children 2-12 years of age
Children in this age group should only use products that contain 10% DEET or less with a maximum application of three times per day. Take special care to avoid the face and hands. Avoid prolonged use.
On Children 6 months to 2 years of age
Only use products that contain 10% DEET or less. A maximum of one application per day is recommended. Apply sparingly, avoiding the face and hands and use only in situations where a high risk of complications from insect bites exists. Avoid prolonged use.
On Children under 6 months of age
Do not use insect repellents containing DEET.
Instead, use alternative methods to protect your child such as mosquito netting or avoid being outdoors when biting insects are active.
Remember that if you are applying both an insect repellent containing DEET and sunscreen to your child, apply the sunscreen first, and then the insect repellent.
For more information on DEET, visit http://www.pmra-arla.gc.ca/english/consum/insectrepellents-e.html#6.
Keep insect control products out of the reach of children
In order to ensure your children’s safety, it is highly recommended that you store all insect control products out of their reach, or store in cupboards equipped with tamper-proof safety latches.
In case of accidental poisoning
If your child has accidentally ingested an insect control or repellent product, call 9-1-1 or a poison control centre immediately and seek medical attention. Be sure to bring the insect control product container or label with you to the emergency facility or physician.
- Tip!
- As with any household item, always keep emergency phone numbers close at hand.