The invention describes essentially a non-therapeutical process for deterring vermin, which is based on the usage of the largely known beta amino-alcohol derivatives of formula (I), as defined herein before. Furthermore, it describes the corresponding vermin-deterring compositions which contain these substances as the active ingredient, compounds of the formula (I) for the preparation of vermin-deterring compositions, and the use of compounds of formula (I) in the defense against vermin. Thus, the invention describes how and in which form the compounds of the formula (I) or their acid addition salts are used to deter vermin from materials, places or warm-blooded animals.
