Sanitarians should know that the use of pesticides may present some hazard and this is only one of many reasons why engineering or environmental methods of insect control should be favored if practical. However, they should also realize that any recommended insecticide can be safely used if label directions including good personal hygiene are followed. In spite of all, accidental poisonings will occasionally occur and the sanitarian can be useful in such cases if he understands basic first-aid including artificial respiration and if he knows where technical consultation is available.