THE USE OF INSECTICIDE IN HOMES
Insecticides are pesticides used to control insects in homes, agriculture, and industry for hygiene, disease prevention, and comfort. Common household pests include cockroaches, ants, mosquitoes, and termites. Insecticides come in various forms like aerosol sprays, residual sprays, and baits. Safe use involves following instructions, avoiding inhalation, and keeping them away from food and children. Alternatives include cleanliness, physical barriers, and natural repellents. Proper insect control reduces disease risks, enhances hygiene, and ensures a pest-free home.
Oriola OLAGUNJU 
Insecticide is defined as a type of pesticide specifically designed to kill or control insects, used in various settings like agriculture, homes, and industry, to manage pests and diseases. They are substances that either kill or stop them from acting in ways that are harmful to our health. People use insecticide for hygienic purpose, disease control, and for comfort.
Common insects found in homes include:
1. Cockroaches – Thrive in warm, damp places and come out at night.
2. Ants – Often seen in kitchens, attracted to food crumbs and sweets.
3. Mosquitoes – Can breed in standing water and cause bites.
4. Houseflies – Carry germs and are attracted to food and waste.
5. Termites – Destroy wooden structures and furniture.
6. Bedbugs – Hide in mattresses and furniture, feeding on blood at night.
7. Spiders – Often found in corners and crevices, feeding on other insects.
8. Silverfish – Thrive in damp, dark areas and feed on paper, fabrics, and glue.
9. Carpet Beetles – Feed on fabrics, carpets, and stored food.
10. Fruit Flies – Attracted to overripe fruits and sugary substances.
Types of Insecticides Used at Home
1.Aerosol Sprays – Used for quick action against flying and crawling insects.
2.Residual Sprays – Long-lasting effects on surfaces.
3. Mosquito Coils and Repellents – Used to ward off mosquitoes.
4. Powder and Baits – Target specific pests like ants and cockroaches.
Safe and Proper Usage of Insecticides
1.Follow product instructions carefully.
2.Avoid direct inhalation or contact with skin and eyes.
3.Keep insecticides away from food, children, and pets.
4. Use natural alternatives where possible.
5.Ensure proper ventilation after spraying.
In conclusion, using insecticides in homes helps control disease-carrying pests (such as mosquitoes that spread malaria), it also improves comfort by keeping homes pest-free, improves hygiene, and decreases infestation. There are however alternatives to using insecticides in homes, such as keeping the house clean to prevent pest infestations, using physical barriers (such as door seals or mosquito nets), and using natural pest control methods (such as essential oils or planting plants that repel insects like citronella).
