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Tree sap is not usually dangerous to humans or pets. But some trees do produce dangerous sap. Notably, ash, birch, cedar and similar saps can irritate the skin but aren’t dangerous. Sap from trees like the Brazilwood, Mahogany, Milky Mangrove or well-named Poison Walnut can be corrosive, cause nausea, or trigger those with asthma. But for most backyard trees, protective equipment like a sturdy pair of gloves should be fine.

You should not squish a roach because it can spread disease, attract more roaches, and release allergens. Roaches feed on the bodies of dead roaches, making more of them come. Squashing an individual roach only kills that one, whereas boric acid powder or baking soda can kill an entire population because it travels back to the nest before dying.

Gel bait and gel bait traps use poison to kill cockroaches, and aren’t safe to use around pets. Many gel bait traps are called “child-resistant,” but this only means that the traps are hard to rip open for children. Large pets and children are still able to swallow them. If you use gel bait, use it in areas where pets and children can’t access them, such as under a washing machine. Another option is to use glue traps, which don’t contain pesticides and are safe to use around pets. 

There are quite a few opinions regarding using coffee grinds to keep deer out of your garden, with many people convinced of this method. It makes sense that it could work considering deer have a strong sense of smell and likely do not like the smell of coffee grounds. However, there’s no hard evidence supporting the notion that coffee grounds keep deer away, but it may be worth trying.