Bug bomb ban

Home fumigation is for professionals only

By FRITZ MAYER

NEW YORK STATE — Bug bombs are a good way to get rid of roaches, fleas and other unwanted house pests. But according to the experts, they’re also a good way to make yourself sick.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued a report in early October saying that bug bombs, which are also known as total release foggers, have caused numerous explosions and illnesses due to pesticide exposure. In a study covering 2001 to 2006, there were 123 cases of illness or injury in New York related to the use of the bombs.

Most of the injuries and illnesses were minor and related to temporary respiratory distress. But there was at least one fatality: a 10-month-old infant girl, who was put into bed a few hours after her apartment was bombed and died overnight.

Dr. Geoffrey Calvert, a researcher with CDC, said, “The most common problem is after people set off the bug bomb, they either are not leaving their home or they’re taking too much time to leave. Other common problems were people going back into their home too soon. And some people failed to notify others in the home or nearby apartments about the use of the bombs.”

Calvert said consumers should read and closely follow the directions on the label of the bombs to avoid problems. But for Pete Grannis, commissioner of the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), such warnings are not sufficient. Grannis has moved to ban the sale of bug bombs to consumers.

A press release from the DEC on October 16 said, “DEC will move to classify foggers as a restricted-use product in New York State, meaning that only certified pesticide applicators?rather than the general public?will be able to obtain them. Simultaneously, DEC will explore the need to further limit fogger use and encourage the adoption of better pest-management strategies.”

Grannis is quoted as saying, "The CDC report has shone a spotlight on foggers." Over the past year, DEC has been in discussions with the New York State Department of Health and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene regarding the problems with these products. Fortunately, we have the authority to address these hazards and protect New Yorkers."

Some organizations think that Grannis is overreacting.

A trade group that represents companies that make the bombs pointed out that most of the illnesses and injuries connected to the devices were due to improper use of the product.

"It is critical that consumers read and follow the label instructions to help protect themselves while also controlling pest infestations in the home that can often lead to health problems," said Gretchen Schaefer, spokeswoman for the Consumer Specialty Products Association.

In New York State, the products will slowly disappear over the next six months as existing supplies are exhausted and not replenished.