Criteria for choosing a pesticide include:

1. Safety is top priority
   Questions to ask include what is the toxicity level of the pesticide (measured by LD50–the higher the LD50 number, the less toxic); how mobile is the pesticide and in what fashion can it be distributed (through air, soil, water, etc.); what is the residual life of the pesticide; and what are the environmental hazards listed on the label?
2. Species specificity
   This is especially important to look for before using toxic chemicals since certain pesticides only affect the target animals or plants. Try to avoid getting broad spectrum pesticides that have potential to kill or harm many beneficial species along with the pest. If such a pesticide is the only option, try doing spot treatments to reduce the likelihood of affecting non-target organisms.
3. Effectiveness
   For pesticides, it is a bit difficult to measure effectiveness because it can vary depending on where the chemicals are being applied. In a lab, for instance, a chemical may kill a large percentage of the target pest because it is a controlled environment, but in a real life situation, the number may be much smaller due to other factors such as killing off natural enemies, temperature changes, etc. Evaluating uses of a considered pesticide in similar situations as that of your school may help in estimating the kind of effect it will have.
4. Endurance
   An animal or plant’s endurance to the effects of a pesticide may vary. Watch for success in pest control: if it at first seems to work well but then later populations grow despite continued use, there may be some built up resistance.
5. Pesticides vary in their speeds of interaction
   Choosing a pesticide should be determined based on circumstances. If it is an emergency, a shorter lived, fast acting and more acutely toxic material (such as organophosphate for cockroaches) may be necessary. But a longer lasting, slow acting and less toxic material (such as boric acid) may be better for chronic pest problems.
6. Cost
   This is always a consideration when deciding what chemicals to use. Determination of cost often is done by measuring dollars per volume-some new materials that are effective in lower doses may be more expensive than older pesticides that need larger amounts to do the job. A small container of more concentrated material may seem more expensive, but may be as effective as three times that much in another kind of pesticide.
7. Once a pesticide is selected, notify
   Give notification to personnel, students, and parents about what pesticide will be (or has been) used and where it is going to be (or has been) applied so they are aware of any possible exposure. Ideally applications should be done when buildings are unoccupied, but regardless, it is best to give advanced notice that an application is scheduled so that everyone can take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of those involved.

Using Pesticides

1. Registration 
   Make sure that the product is registered for use in Nebraska and know the laws regarding its use. Search for registered products in Nebraska.
2. Read the Pesticide Label
   Follow its directions for use, registrations, storage, and disposal to the letter. Signal words on labels indicate the toxicity levels:
   • DANGER-a taste to a teaspoon taken by mouth could kill an average-sized adult.
   • WARNING-a teaspoonful to an ounce taken by mouth could kill an average-sized adult.
   • CAUTION-an ounce to over a pint taken by mouth could kill an average-sized adult.
3. Secure (if required) written recommendations
   Obtain these from a licensed pest control advisor for use of the pesticide.
4. Personal Protective Equipment
   Make sure that all safety equipment, such as gloves, goggles, respirator, hat, etc. are available and worn when the pesticide is used.
5. Pesticide applicators should be licensed
   Commercial operators must have a license to apply pesticides on school grounds and be able to handle all equipment needed for the application. Search for licensed applicators in Nebraska.
6. Equipment
   Make sure it is correctly calibrated and appropriate for the job at hand.
7. Spot treat 
   This will keep material confined to the area requiring treatment.
8. MSDS Sheets should be available
9. Keep records
   What pesticide was used and for what? How much was used? Be sure to list all pertinent information about the treatment for future reference about what was done.
10. Monitor for pests after the application
    Post-treatment monitoring can help determine the method’s success.
11. Compile Emergency Contact list
    • Keep by the phone, including the Nebraska Poison Center
    • 1-800-222-1222 or in the Omaha area 955-5555.
12. Disposal
    Do not put pesticides down toilets, sinks, or other drains or gutters. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper disposal.