Like any product you need to make sure you apply it as directed and read all instructions for it to work properly on insects and be safe for your family.  JT Eaton Answer Boric Acid Dust is meant to be applied in cracks and crevices, underneath appliances and inside wall voids.  If you apply it correctly and in these types of areas it will not be accessible for your pets and children to come in contact with but it will be in the places that bugs like to hide.  You do not have to remove the pets and children while you are treating, but it would be a good idea to have them in a different room while you are applying the dust.  After 30 minutes have passed after you have applied the product it is perfectly safe for them to be back in the room that you treated.