A NATIONAL trade organization has warned residents of an “extremely poisonous” weed that grows across town and has injured adults and children.
Over the years, a number of children, as well as adults, have reported injuries after coming into contact with giant hogweed in the UK.
Giant hogweed is not only dangerous to humans but also to dogs – coming into contact with the plant can cause a dog’s fur to become red and itchy. In some cases, this can cause eye scarring and even blindness.
The invasive weed is capable of growing up to a height of five meters and can produce up to 30,000 to 50,000 seeds, which can survive in the soil for a number of years.
Now, as summer vacation sets in, the Property Care Association (PCA) is calling for vigilance to help protect against injury.
Dr Peter Fitzsimons, technical manager of PCA’s invasive weed control group, said: “The sap of giant hogweed is extremely toxic to the skin in the sun, making it a public health hazard. .
“The young are more likely to come in contact with the plant during the summer and the mixture of warm weather and rain provided good conditions for the weed to take hold this year.
“Giant hogweed is also spreading over a wider area, which means people are more likely to encounter it.
“If someone comes in contact with any part of the plant, followed by exposure to the sun, they can experience severe skin blisters and discomfort, and this reaction can recur for many years.”
“The general public, as well as local authorities, statutory agencies and landowners on whose property people may come into contact with the plant, must be aware of the risks and Giant hogweed must be controlled and managed in a manner professional. ”
The APC also provides a means of identifying contractors and specialist consultants with the expertise to control and manage invasive species such as giant hogweed, as well as other plants such as Japanese knotweed.
More details on invasive weeds are available at www.property-care.org/homeowners/invasive-weed-control.
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Source: www.theargus.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-07-23 11:10:24
