Bug bombs blast apartment

SACRAMENTO
June 25, 2009 1:20pm

Be careful… be v-e-r-y careful with those bug bombs.

The state Department of Pesticide Regulation is out with a warning today to read the label before you set them off.

It seems a large explosion that blasted through a Citrus Height apartment complex on Sunday was caused by improper use of a bunch of bug bombs.

“Thank goodness no one was hurt in the explosion that was preventable had the tenant followed label instructions,” says Department of Pesticide Regulation Director Mary-Ann Warmerdam. “I can’t emphasize enough the importance of following instructions for any pesticide product.”

One 6-ounce or 8-ounce fogger is enough for an apartment and other small living spaces. Too many foggers will not control pests better than using the amount recommended, she says.

Total release foggers contain aerosol propellants that quickly release an insecticide that can kill cockroaches, fleas and other pests if they aren’t hiding in cracks and crevices and the fog reaches them.

But improper use can cause a fire or explosion. All ignition sources should be turned off, including pilot lights, and refrigerators, air conditioners and other appliances that might produce a spark when cycling on and off.

Users of total release foggers and bystanders can also become ill if they fail to leave an area before the product is discharged or enter the space too soon after its use, the DPR says.

According to the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department, one of the tenants in the Citrus Heights apartment complex set off at least 10 foggers to control a cockroach infestation in his unit. Three families were left homeless by the explosion fire investigators determined was ignited by a refrigerator.

Ms. Warmerdam suggests using prevention strategies to control pests and reduce the need for pesticides in the home. Removing clutter, fixing leaky pipes and keeping counters and floors free of food in open dishes and crumbs are some of the ways people can prevent infestations.