What Is The Active Ingredient In Spectracide Triazicide?
The formula’s active ingredient is 0.08% Gamma-Cyhalothrin which provides broad-spectrum control of a wide range of insects. It is used in agricultural as well as residential pest control prevention.
As with any insecticide, care should be taken with the use of this product. The Safety Data Sheet can be downloaded from the Spectracide website.
Here are a few key points to note regarding the safety and use of Spectracide Triazicide Yard Spray.
In 2003, the New York Department of Health conducted a study on the potential toxicity of Spectracide Traizicide using laboratory rats.
They found that the formula was “not very toxic” when testing acute exposure to skin, respiratory system, and mouth. Additionally, they noted minimal eye irritation in testing conducted on rabbits (source).
Still, common sense and good judgment should be applied when using any chemical insecticide. Below are the specific warnings and alerts that I have found in my research that you should keep in mind when using this product.
The formula is harmful if swallowed. The company’s literature advises contacting Poison Control or a physician if ingestion occurs.
Spectracide Triazicide Yard Spray requires thorough washing of hands or any exposed areas after use if you come into direct contact. Personally, I think this is good practice regardless as the mist from the spray may be so minute that you might not realize you have it one you. Which brings us to the next warning:
While tests conducted on laboratory rats may not have shown toxicity related to acute exposure, consideration of the long-term effects of using an insecticide like this should be taken into account. The Safety Data Sheet lists no special first aid measures for inhalation.
The University of Missouri has a detailed article written by representatives from their Department of Agriculture and Department of Agronomy on the general precautions and concerns of working with pesticides.
These authors recommend that in the case of inhalation, the person be moved to fresh air. If they show any signs of distress, contact 911 (source).
Is Spectracide Triazicide Safe To Use Around Pets And Kids?
This was the first priority I had in making sure I was comfortable with its use. What I found was that, according to the product label, pets and children should not be allowed back onto the lawn until the spray has dried.
Being obsessive, I kept everyone off the lawn for two days. That’s probably excessive but I thought it best to err on the side of caution.
Ideally, you want to spray the formula prior to insects getting out of control. Other than that, the instructions clearly state not to apply during rain. It’s also best to apply when you are not expecting rain for a couple of days.
Prevent Hose From Being Dragged Through Treaded Area
The company recommends starting at a far end or corner of the yard and working backward so that you do not cross over the treated area as you work.
One challenge I found with this was that my hose kept getting left in the treated area as I worked backward. I had to remember to pull it with me as I worked to prevent dragging it across the treated area. Otherwise, it’s a pretty simple and intuitive process.
I found the best approach to this is to hold the sprayer in one hand and grip the hose with the other. This way, you can pull the hose along and jerk it out of the target area as you move.
FAQ
How often can you apply Triazicide?
How long does spectracide Triazicide last?
Does Triazicide have an expiration date?
