Dangerous Poison

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

A Hamilton thief is dicing with death, and risking public safety, after stealing a poison so deadly even touching it can be fatal.

Rentokil Initial issued an urgent public safety notice in the wake of the theft of Feratox, a cyanide poison used for pest control, which it said took place overnight between June 12/13 in Hamilton from a company vehicle.

He said their number one concern at present was public safety. He also said he had a message for whoever had taken the items.

“Please return the goods. They’re very dangerous and could cause immense harm to the public.”

The company said police, the Environmental Protection Authority, Waikato Regional Council and “all other relevant authorities” have been notified of the theft.

Anyone who comes across the material is asked not to touch it and immediately contact police on 111, or the EPA on 0800 225 537.

According to the safety data sheet from Feratox manufacturers Connovation, the bait station product is fatal if swallowed, fatal in contact with skin and is also “suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child”.

It is also “very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects”.

Anyone who comes into contact with the poison is urged to seek immediate medical attention, and symptoms can include dizziness, rapid breathing, headache, drowsiness, rapid pulse, unconsciousness and convulsions.