The city?s health department is launching a new campaign to stop the use of illegal pesticides in Bronx and city households.

The ?Happy Homes? campaign warns residents about the dangers of illegal pesticides. Health officials say pesticides can aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems. They add the products are illegal because they have not been proven safe to use in homes.

An expert says the increased insect and rodent infestation cases are causing some residents to use the illegal pesticides. However, he says there are safer ways to get rid of the pests including fixing leaks, sealing any holes in homes and storing food in sealed containers.

Related Links:EPA: Illegal Pesticide ProductsNYC Vital SignsFor information on illegal pesticides, or to report their sale, call 311 or log on to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene