Chemical insecticides are the most effective way to kill harmful insects and mites. Fenthion quickly eliminates bedbugs, mites, and insect larvae from premises. Because the substance is toxic, it's important to follow safety precautions when using it. Proper storage conditions are also essential.
What is included in the composition and existing forms of release
Pure fenthion (an organophosphorus compound) is a brownish, oily liquid with a faint garlic aroma. It is soluble in organic solvents, ether, acetone, and ethanol.
This product belongs to the group of insecticides and is used to kill ticks and insects. Products containing 40-50% fenthion are available as wettable powders and concentrated emulsions. They are used for disinfection in the medical, sanitary, and household sectors.
Mechanism of action and purpose
The product inhibits acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that promotes proper nervous system function, upon exposure to harmful insects. The pests die as a result of paralysis of all body systems.
Fenthion is intended for use in residential and non-residential areas in hospitals and food processing plants. Exceptions include hospital wards, dining rooms, bedrooms, and playrooms. It is used to control:
- cockroaches, bedbugs, fleas, rat mites;
- mosquito and fly larvae;
- external parasites of cattle, dogs, pigs (flies, lice, ticks, fleas);
- ixodid ticks.
When using the drug, it is important to remember that its effect lasts for 30-45 days (for ticks – 20-30 days).
Terms of Use
Fenthion is classified as a toxic substance. When using the product, it is important to follow the instructions regarding application rates and specific handling instructions.
At home
In residential settings, bedbug extermination is most often necessary. An effective solution is the use of chemicals containing fenthion.
The advantages of "Executioner" include: no strong, persistent odor, moderate toxicity, and the ability to kill both adult insects and larvae. Ensure free access to the treatment area before use. Directions:
- windows and doors are tightly closed, ventilation grilles are sealed;
- furniture is moved away from the walls, things to be processed are laid out and unfolded;
- the powder solution is poured into a spray bottle;
- The liquid is sprayed on insects and areas where they congregate. The effect lasts for 6-8 hours, then the room is ventilated until the odor completely disappears.
The disadvantages of this product include the need to prepare a working solution and the mandatory presence of a spray bottle.
From ixodid ticks
When a tick bites, it can infect an animal with various diseases dangerous to humans (barreliosis, piroplasmosis, anaplasmosis). These insects also carry tick-borne encephalitis, typhus, and tularemia. To protect animals, the premises where they are kept are treated. The widely used drug "Acarocid" is available as a concentrated emulsion containing 40% fenthion.
When treated with a working solution, the duration of residual action against ixodid ticks lasts for 30-45 days.
Safety precautions and what to do in case of poisoning
The chemical is toxic and can be absorbed by inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Therefore, it is important to observe safety precautions during work:
- Be sure to use personal protective equipment (respirator, safety glasses, rubber gloves and shoes, special clothing);
- During the processing of premises, it is prohibited to remove personal protective equipment, drink, smoke, or eat;
- After finishing work, wash your hands, face, and exposed areas of the body with soap.
When ingested, the drug disrupts the peripheral and central nervous systems. Runny nose and coughing occur when the solution is exhaled. Involuntary muscle contractions may occur if the solution comes into contact with the skin. Muscle paralysis and coma are typical symptoms of accidental ingestion. It is important to promptly perform gastric lavage and seek medical attention.
Storage rules
Any products containing fenthion must be stored in a designated area. Do not store drinking water, food, or animal feed in the same area. It is recommended to store products in their original, hermetically sealed packaging. The working solution should be prepared immediately before use. The prepared product should be used within 7-8 hours.
What to replace it with
Manufacturers produce various insecticidal products for home use. Common fenthion analogues include:
- "Breeze" is available as a concentrated emulsion containing cypermethrin as its active ingredient. It is used to control ticks. When sprayed indoors, the residual effect lasts for 1-1.5 months.
- Get Total is used to kill fleas, bedbugs, and ants. The active ingredient is chlorpyrifos. It is harmless to humans and pets. When applied directly, bedbugs die within 2-2.5 hours.
For treating large spaces, it is advisable to use professional products such as Averfos, Xulat, and Sinuzan, which are available in 5-10 liter canisters.
The advantages of fenthion are clear: long-lasting protective action, low application rate, affordable cost, and ease of preparation of the working solution. To ensure effective treatment, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions.