How should pesticides be stored?

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of storing pesticides in a cool, dry location that is also removed from food, children, and pets. This approach significantly reduces the risk of accidental exposure or ingestion, protecting vulnerable populations such as children and pets. A cool, dry environment helps maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the pesticide, preventing degradation or loss of potency that can result from heat or moisture exposure.

Storing pesticides away from food is essential to avoid contamination, as pesticides can leave harmful residues that could lead to serious health risks if ingested. Additionally, placing them in a secure area prevents unauthorized access, ensuring that only trained individuals handle the products.

Considering the context of the other options, storing pesticides in an open shed could lead to exposure to the elements and potential loss of effectiveness. Keeping them in direct sunlight might cause them to degrade more rapidly, reducing their efficacy. Mixing pesticides with fertilizers poses a risk of chemical reactions that might create harmful substances, as well as complicating management and application procedures. Hence, the recommended method of storage focuses on safety and maintaining the pesticides' quality.