everythingpestcontrol-blog

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Common Pests An How They Get Into Facilities

There are a variety of pests that plague vulnerable facilities. In fact, many pests — in search of food, water and shelter — find comfort in the environments facilities provide. Understanding the most frequent offenders will help managers prevent future pest problems.

Birds are considered to be an occasional invader and may enter a facility looking for a place to roost or nest. While food-related facilities provide the perfect combination of food and shelter, birds can become problematic at a variety of facilities. These pests can damage or destroy property and are considered to be a health concern as they eat and contaminate food items.

Managers should be on the lookout for signs of bird activity, which can indicate a problem. One of the most common signs is the presence of droppings. Pigeon droppings, in particular, are very acidic and can deface marble, limestone, painted surfaces and even car finishes.

Rodents are known to destroy a variety of materials and cause structural damage as they gnaw through wallboards, wood, plaster and electrical wiring. In addition to being a structural nightmare, rodents are a medical concern, as they are known to transmit various diseases and can contaminate food.

Mice are the most commonly encountered and economically important of all the commensal rodents. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a dime and are prolific breeders that can transmit disease by contaminating food with their droppings and/or urine.

Norway rats are the largest of the commensal rodents and the most commonly encountered rats in temperate environments. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a quarter and are known to destroy materials by gnawing, contaminating stored food products and are vectors of many diseases.

Roof Rats are the smaller of the two commensal rats and more common in subtropical and tropical regions, but are just as problematic.

Ants, due to their sophisticated social structure, small size and efficiency at finding food, can become problematic in a variety of settings. These insects can reproduce at a rapid rate, and their small size allows them to enter structures through the tiniest cracks and crevices, making them difficult to control.

Cockroaches are one of the more prolific pests, often found in facilities that provide access to food and water. They enter facilities organically and are often brought in via deliveries. They are considered to be a major health and safety concern as they are capable of spreading nearly 33 different kinds of bacteria. If cockroaches are found, corrective treatment should be taken immediately.

Flies are not only nuisance pests, many add to disease transmission. Fly control is one of the more challenging pest control problems as larval development sites must be located and eliminated for success. Sanitation and exclusion should be a primary focus when resolving a fly infestation.

Developing a proper IPM program is essential for a variety of facility types, and contributes to the health and safety of building occupants. Facility cleaning managers should partner with a reputable pest management firm to develop a specific program suited for their unique needs.

[everythingpestcontrol-blog]

Cockroach Control

Cockroach control is one of the single most challenging pest control issues out there. Unfortunately, choosing any single method of extermination is setting yourself up for failure. Cockroaches are just too geared towards survival for any one method to do the trick. Instead, the best method is a comprehensive plan that includes keeping a sanitary home along with the use of baits, dusts, pheromone traps, growth regulators, and when necessary, insecticides.

Keep a Clean House

In order to combat a cockroach problem, it’s important to understand how these bugs think. Cockroaches in house are survivors, and as such their primary concerns include eating, drinking, and making more cockroaches. As long as there’s shelter and a source of food and water present, they will do their best to make themselves at home. That being said, the first step in any cockroach extermination is making things a little less hospitable. Make sure all foodstuffs are sealed and stored away when they’re not being used and never leave food out that’s not being eaten. That includes dirty dishes, old pizza boxes, crumbs on the floor, even dog food should be put away at night. Also, be sure to fix any leaky pipes as cockroaches are drawn to those high moisture areas as well.

Find out Where They’re Living

Once you’ve addressed your end of the problem, the next step is identifying where they’re living so you can try to close off and eliminate those areas. Look for cracks, holes, and other small spaces behind counters, appliances and in cabinets. Cockroaches in houses like tight, dark places. By identifying these places and sealing them off (usually with some kind of caulking material), you’re taking another big step towards on getting grid of your unwanted guests.

Poison Central

Once you’ve identified where your infestation problem has its origins, you can start assaulting that area with wide range of cockroach extermination products. Baits and dusts make for great cockroach solutions for several reasons. First of all, the poison kills any cockroach who comes in contact with them. Secondly, cockroaches are cannibals and any dead cockroach will quickly be eaten by others. If a cockroach dies of poisoning, then all the cockroaches who snack on him are likely to suffer the same fate.

Pheromone Traps and Growth Regulators

Besides poisoning, pheromone traps are an effective form of control as well. The traps emit a pheromone scent that cockroaches interpret as another roach ready to mate. They are attracted to the trap, head inside for some good times, and quickly find themselves stuck and dying. The other product that addresses the reproductive side of things are growth regulators. It’s a spray that when applied to immature cockroaches damages their ability to reproduce, heading the problem off at the source.

Should You Use Insecticide?

Insecticides haven’t proven to be as effective with cockroaches in house as with some other insects. Because of their high reproductive rate, many cockroach communities have developed resistance to insecticides, and cockroaches will often retreat from a treated area to another place in the house until the insecticide wears off. You might not see too many roaches for a while, but it doesn’t mean they won’t be back, either.

By far the best approach to cockroach control includes utilizing all of the tactics mentioned above, and more if you can find them. Also, keep in mind that cockroaches give even the pros a rough time. Honestly, your chances of eradicating them yourself are pretty slim. If you’re suffering from an infestation, your best bet is to call in a pest control company with a proven track record of total cockroach extermination.

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Ant Control 101

Ant control is a common pest control problem across the country. While there are many different types of ants that find their way into our homes, including pavement ants, carpenter ants, odorous house ants, thief ants, fire ants, and pharaoh ants, just to name a few, for the most part the strategies for dealing with them are all the same.

Get Them Where It Counts

Far and away the biggest mistake homeowners make when facing ant infestation is to kill the ants they can see as quickly as possible and hope they’ve solved the problem. Whether you’re using an insecticide spray or your shoe, however, you’re missing the boat if this is your preferred course of action. While it may seem like there’s a lot of ants marching across your kitchen floor, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s anywhere from several hundred to several thousand more in a nest nearby. And that includes at least one egg-laying queen who is doing her best to increase those numbers by the day. Spraying the ten or twenty making their way to the pantry might make you feel productive, but what you really need to do is find a way to get rid of that nest.

A Solution to the Problem: Ant Baits

Perhaps the best solution for indoor ant control is to set out ant baits throughout your home. Ants are drawn to the “food” inside the baits (which is really poison) and then will take it back to the nest to share it with others. It’s really the only way to attack the nest where your ant problem is originating. When laying your bait try to do so next to scent trails (invisible trails that ants follow to get to a specific place. It’s why they all walk together in such perfect lines). You’ll get more traffic by doing so and the ants in house will come across the bait faster. Also, never spray ants that are gathering around the bait. Remember, the goal is that they take the poison back to the next. Don’t kill them before they get the chance. Finally, be sure to place bait traps out of reach of pets and children, since they are toxic and harmful if played with or swallowed.

Outdoors

Some ant control issues aren’t solved indoors. There are ants that next outdoors and travel in to find food and water. And there are ants, such as fire ants, that generally stay outdoors, but present a nuisance or danger for homeowners. In the case of these types of ants, find the nest or anthill, then douse it with a liquid insecticide. Don’t skimp here. There more you apply and the deeper the treatment penetrates into the mound, the better your results will be. To prevent outdoor ants from becoming ants in house, you can also apply an insecticide/repellent around the outside edge of your home. Spray a 2-3 foot strip of insecticide at the base of your home, as well as a 2-3 foot strip on the ground around it. This should help repel ants looking for a way inside.

Final Thoughts

Remember, most outdoor ants are actually very beneficial to your yard and plants. They clean up plant debris, dead bugs, and often help control other insect pests. Don’t eradicate them unless you’ve got good reason to. Finally, keep in mind that certain species of ants, including carpenter and odorous ants, can be a very difficult ant problem to eradicate (and in the case of carpenter ants, can result in structural damage if your extermination isn’t successful). If you’ve got a persistent ant problem that won’t go away, it’s probably a good idea to bring in a pest control professional. They have access to ant control techniques and products that aren’t available to the general public.

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9 Pest Control Tips to Keep Pests Away

Nothing ruins a picnic like a line of ants. Nothing ruins a barbecue like a swarm of mosquitoes. And nothing ruins a morning like spotting a spider, cockroach, or mouse somewhere in your house.

Keep bugs and critters away from your home and yard this summer with these 10 best pest control practices.

1. Block Their Entry to Your Home

Your first line of defense is to make it difficult for pests to even find an entry to your home. Check all your screens for holes, and repair if you find any. Check around your doors and windows for gaps, and replace window stripping when needed.

2. Clean Your Kitchen

A pile of crumbs on your counter or floor is like a treasure chest to ants and other insects. Let them find treasure elsewhere - outside and far away from your home - by making sure you offer no treasure to be found in your own kitchen. Wipe your counters, sweep your floors, put food away immediately, and take out the trash regularly.

3. Get Rid of Standing Water

Getting rid of standing water is the first step to control mosquitoes. Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and a big, fat invitation for mosquitoes to start a family. It’s easy to miss standing water sometimes, so regularly walk your property to check for it. Look in rain spouts, check for leaks near your air conditioning unit, and pick up toys left scattered throughout the yard.

4. Maintain Your Yard

Keep your landscaping maintained to avoid overgrowth that is perfect for pests and their nests. Trim bushes and trees that are near the house, rake up debris, and yes - you’re also going to have to weed.

5. Eat Your Fruits and Veggies

Don’t let fruits and veggies get overly ripe on your counter. If you do, the fruit flies will invite themselves in for a spell and eliminating fruit flies is a headache you don’t want.

6. Store Your Firewood Properly

Don’t give termites free access to your home. If you store firewood, keep it away from your house or shed. As far away as possible, actually. Five feet should be the minimum distance, but if you can store it even farther away, you’ll be in better shape. Also, store it in racks above the ground.

7. Don’t Throw Meat Outside Too Soon

Try not to throw meat scraps in your outside garbage unless the garbage will be picked up in the next 48 hours or so. The combination of rotting meat and summer sun could bring unwanted pests to your yard alarmingly fast.

8. Inspect Swings and Outdoor Furniture

Regularly check the chains and corners of your swing sets and outdoor furniture for spider webs and egg sacks. Remove them when you see them.

9. Don’t Bring the Outside In

Keep outside toys outside and inside toys inside. If you have to bring in a toy, chair, or table, thoroughly wipe it down first.

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Itching for a Solution on Mosquito Control?

During the summer months, mosquito control is a must almost anywhere. They are annoying, numerous, and resilient. They have been known to spread diseases including the West Nile and Zika virus. Even worse, they are notorious picnic and barbecue crashers. There is hope, however. With the right tools and a bit of effort, it’s possible to control mosquito populations in many different situations and climates.

Mosquito Problem Prevention

Mosquitoes thrive in damp areas, but you don’t have to live in a swamp to have a mosquito problem. Swamps are full of standing water, which makes them an ideal place for mosquitoes to breed. Standing water, however, is not necessarily a swamp. If you are seeing a large number of mosquitoes in or around your home, they are most likely breeding somewhere on your property. Clogged rain gutters, bird baths, fountains, rain barrels, plant trays—any one of these can provide enough standing water to harbor a mosquito population. The best form of mosquito extermination is prevention. Make sure that any place around your home where water sits for extended periods is kept clean or the water is regularly replaced (at least once a week is recommended).

Mosquito Control

While you can take measures to minimize standing water around your own home, it’s unlikely that you can do the same for your entire community. Mosquitoes don’t give a hoot about property lines, and they won’t call before they drop by.

Aside from the obligatory citronella candles and bug zappers, there are other precautions you can take to keep mosquitoes away from your home. Examine all of your doors and windows. Replace any screens that are damaged (and therefore not “bug tight”). Exchange any white outdoor light bulbs with yellow ones, which attract fewer bugs. Set traps around your property and replace (or replenish) them regularly. Netting or screens can be installed or put up temporarily to help seal off porches, decks, and similar structures. Using mosquito repellent is suggested when spending long periods of time outdoors.

Mosquito Extermination

Mosquito extermination is not recommended on an individual level, as the chemicals used to kill populations should be handled by professionals. At the very least, a professional should be consulted before any mosquito extermination plan is put into effect.

Certain areas require state and local government assistance to control mosquitoes. These places have severe problems that pose a distinct health risk. Governments focus on the entire life cycle from larvae to adult. They use both chemical and biological methods of extermination. Public mosquito control programs are designed to pose very little risk to individual people (pesticide concentration is very low—around 3 ounces per acre is used to kill adult mosquitoes). In the areas where mosquito populations are densest, these programs are literally lifesavers.

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How Integrated Pest Management Prevents...

Managers of large facilities face unique challenges when it comes to pest management programs. As some of these facilities tend to house more sensitive populations — children, young adults and ill people — there is an even greater responsibility to keep occupants safe from the serious health threats posed by the presence of pests. Yet, to do so often requires more specialized, focused pest management plans, which are a direct result of a partnership between a pest management company and the facility’s staff — especially those performing custodial duties.

As the custodial staff typically performs their duties after hours, they are more apt to notice problems or signs of infestations than other employees. Educating the custodial staff about the dangers of pests, conditions that attract pests, and how to recognize problems can go a long way in preventing or quickly eliminating a growing infestation.  

This proactive effort is at the root of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a process that combines common sense and sound solutions for treating and controlling pests.  The focus is on finding the best treatment for a pest problem, and not merely the simplest.  

Pest professionals never employ a “one size fits all” method in IPM, but rather, utilize a three-part practice:

1) inspection,

2) identification and

3) treatment by a pest professional.

Treatment options in IPM can vary from sealing cracks to removing food and water sources to employing control products, when necessary

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Different Methods of Insect Extermination

There are many facets to insect extermination. To have a better understanding of these facets, it is important to have several key pieces of information, such as the location of the infestation, which kind of pests you have, and the consequences of exterminating them. There are several methods available for insect extermination: hiring a professional, using naturally occurring materials and compounds, and using organic methods, like soap and water.

Hire an Exterminator for Insect Extermination

Only a professional should use chemical pesticides for insect extermination purposes. Hiring an exterminator provides the most comprehensive pest control coverage possible, since his or her years of experience and training can cover all of your pest control needs. If you know you have an infestation but do not know where the colony is or which insect it may be, an exterminator can determine both things by searching for clues, such as the type of damage done or what type of food the insects prefer. Hiring an exterminator is the safest and most effective method of insect extermination.

Use Boric Acid for Insect Extermination

Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound that is incredibly useful for controlling pests. Boric acid acts as an insecticide and is effective at killing many insects. Boric acid is most commonly a white powder, and you should mix it with cocoa or powdered sugar as bait for maximum efficiency. It poisons the stomach of any insect that eats it, and is abrasive to insects’ exoskeletons. Boric acid’s strength is in its ability to devastate an entire hive or colony. Once one of the insects takes some boric acid back to the hive or colony, it spreads and eventually eliminates the infestation outright. Though not an immediate means of insect extermination, it is a far safer one than using traditional pesticides, since boric acid is non-toxic to humans and is safe to use around children, pets, or the kitchen area.

Use Diatomaceous Earth for Insect Extermination

Diatomaceous earth is composed of the fossilized remains of single-celled plants present many years ago. Since it is comprised mostly of silica, manufacturers can easily crush diatomaceous earth into an incredibly fine powder. One of the main benefits of diatomaceous earth is its efficiency in insect extermination. Though it is not poisonous to insects, it is incredibly abrasive and works to absorb lipids from insects’ exoskeletons, which causes them to dehydrate after a short period. Though generally you would use either boric acid or diatomaceous earth, you can use both in conjunction with appropriate bait to obtain excellent results.

Use Soap and Water/Boiling Water for Insect Extermination

Mix six tablespoons of dish detergent with a half-gallon of water in a bucket. Pour or splash this onto insects’ colony or hive. If you are dealing with bees, hornets, or wasps, you should wait until night and wear heavy protective clothing. Keep in mind that repeat applications may be necessary. Though not as immediately effective as chemical pesticides, using soap and water is an easy do-it-yourself pest control technique. You should exercise caution when trying to eliminate insect infestations yourself, as some insect infestations can be dangerous. Boiling water is typically only effective against anthills and colonies. You need about six gallons of boiling water per colony, and repeat applications are likely necessary.

There are many methods of insect extermination. Hiring a professional is easily the best and most effective method, though some do-it-yourself methods are available. Always exercise caution if attempting insect extermination yourself, since it can be a dangerous task. For more information about insects or exterminating them effectively, contact a local pest control company.

[everythingpestcontrol-blog]

Common Pests An How They Get Into Facilities

There are a variety of pests that plague vulnerable facilities. In fact, many pests — in search of food, water and shelter — find comfort in the environments facilities provide. Understanding the most frequent offenders will help managers prevent future pest problems.

Birds are considered to be an occasional invader and may enter a facility looking for a place to roost or nest. While food-related facilities provide the perfect combination of food and shelter, birds can become problematic at a variety of facilities. These pests can damage or destroy property and are considered to be a health concern as they eat and contaminate food items.

Managers should be on the lookout for signs of bird activity, which can indicate a problem. One of the most common signs is the presence of droppings. Pigeon droppings, in particular, are very acidic and can deface marble, limestone, painted surfaces and even car finishes.

Rodents are known to destroy a variety of materials and cause structural damage as they gnaw through wallboards, wood, plaster and electrical wiring. In addition to being a structural nightmare, rodents are a medical concern, as they are known to transmit various diseases and can contaminate food.

Mice are the most commonly encountered and economically important of all the commensal rodents. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a dime and are prolific breeders that can transmit disease by contaminating food with their droppings and/or urine.

Norway rats are the largest of the commensal rodents and the most commonly encountered rats in temperate environments. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a quarter and are known to destroy materials by gnawing, contaminating stored food products and are vectors of many diseases.

Roof Rats are the smaller of the two commensal rats and more common in subtropical and tropical regions, but are just as problematic.

Ants, due to their sophisticated social structure, small size and efficiency at finding food, can become problematic in a variety of settings. These insects can reproduce at a rapid rate, and their small size allows them to enter structures through the tiniest cracks and crevices, making them difficult to control.

Cockroaches are one of the more prolific pests, often found in facilities that provide access to food and water. They enter facilities organically and are often brought in via deliveries. They are considered to be a major health and safety concern as they are capable of spreading nearly 33 different kinds of bacteria. If cockroaches are found, corrective treatment should be taken immediately.

Flies are not only nuisance pests, many add to disease transmission. Fly control is one of the more challenging pest control problems as larval development sites must be located and eliminated for success. Sanitation and exclusion should be a primary focus when resolving a fly infestation.

Developing a proper IPM program is essential for a variety of facility types, and contributes to the health and safety of building occupants. Facility cleaning managers should partner with a reputable pest management firm to develop a specific program suited for their unique needs.

[everythingpestcontrol-blog]

Different Methods of Insect Extermination

There are many facets to insect extermination. To have a better understanding of these facets, it is important to have several key pieces of information, such as the location of the infestation, which kind of pests you have, and the consequences of exterminating them. There are several methods available for insect extermination: hiring a professional, using naturally occurring materials and compounds, and using organic methods, like soap and water.

Hire an Exterminator for Insect Extermination

Only a professional should use chemical pesticides for insect extermination purposes. Hiring an exterminator provides the most comprehensive pest control coverage possible, since his or her years of experience and training can cover all of your pest control needs. If you know you have an infestation but do not know where the colony is or which insect it may be, an exterminator can determine both things by searching for clues, such as the type of damage done or what type of food the insects prefer. Hiring an exterminator is the safest and most effective method of insect extermination.

Use Boric Acid for Insect Extermination

Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound that is incredibly useful for controlling pests. Boric acid acts as an insecticide and is effective at killing many insects. Boric acid is most commonly a white powder, and you should mix it with cocoa or powdered sugar as bait for maximum efficiency. It poisons the stomach of any insect that eats it, and is abrasive to insects’ exoskeletons. Boric acid’s strength is in its ability to devastate an entire hive or colony. Once one of the insects takes some boric acid back to the hive or colony, it spreads and eventually eliminates the infestation outright. Though not an immediate means of insect extermination, it is a far safer one than using traditional pesticides, since boric acid is non-toxic to humans and is safe to use around children, pets, or the kitchen area.

Use Diatomaceous Earth for Insect Extermination

Diatomaceous earth is composed of the fossilized remains of single-celled plants present many years ago. Since it is comprised mostly of silica, manufacturers can easily crush diatomaceous earth into an incredibly fine powder. One of the main benefits of diatomaceous earth is its efficiency in insect extermination. Though it is not poisonous to insects, it is incredibly abrasive and works to absorb lipids from insects’ exoskeletons, which causes them to dehydrate after a short period. Though generally you would use either boric acid or diatomaceous earth, you can use both in conjunction with appropriate bait to obtain excellent results.

Use Soap and Water/Boiling Water for Insect Extermination

Mix six tablespoons of dish detergent with a half-gallon of water in a bucket. Pour or splash this onto insects’ colony or hive. If you are dealing with bees, hornets, or wasps, you should wait until night and wear heavy protective clothing. Keep in mind that repeat applications may be necessary. Though not as immediately effective as chemical pesticides, using soap and water is an easy do-it-yourself pest control technique. You should exercise caution when trying to eliminate insect infestations yourself, as some insect infestations can be dangerous. Boiling water is typically only effective against anthills and colonies. You need about six gallons of boiling water per colony, and repeat applications are likely necessary.

There are many methods of insect extermination. Hiring a professional is easily the best and most effective method, though some do-it-yourself methods are available. Always exercise caution if attempting insect extermination yourself, since it can be a dangerous task. For more information about insects or exterminating them effectively, contact a local pest control company.

[everythingpestcontrol-blog]

Common Pests An How They Get Into Facilities

There are a variety of pests that plague vulnerable facilities. In fact, many pests — in search of food, water and shelter — find comfort in the environments facilities provide. Understanding the most frequent offenders will help managers prevent future pest problems.

Birds are considered to be an occasional invader and may enter a facility looking for a place to roost or nest. While food-related facilities provide the perfect combination of food and shelter, birds can become problematic at a variety of facilities. These pests can damage or destroy property and are considered to be a health concern as they eat and contaminate food items.

Managers should be on the lookout for signs of bird activity, which can indicate a problem. One of the most common signs is the presence of droppings. Pigeon droppings, in particular, are very acidic and can deface marble, limestone, painted surfaces and even car finishes.

Rodents are known to destroy a variety of materials and cause structural damage as they gnaw through wallboards, wood, plaster and electrical wiring. In addition to being a structural nightmare, rodents are a medical concern, as they are known to transmit various diseases and can contaminate food.

Mice are the most commonly encountered and economically important of all the commensal rodents. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a dime and are prolific breeders that can transmit disease by contaminating food with their droppings and/or urine.

Norway rats are the largest of the commensal rodents and the most commonly encountered rats in temperate environments. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a quarter and are known to destroy materials by gnawing, contaminating stored food products and are vectors of many diseases.

Roof Rats are the smaller of the two commensal rats and more common in subtropical and tropical regions, but are just as problematic.

Ants, due to their sophisticated social structure, small size and efficiency at finding food, can become problematic in a variety of settings. These insects can reproduce at a rapid rate, and their small size allows them to enter structures through the tiniest cracks and crevices, making them difficult to control.

Cockroaches are one of the more prolific pests, often found in facilities that provide access to food and water. They enter facilities organically and are often brought in via deliveries. They are considered to be a major health and safety concern as they are capable of spreading nearly 33 different kinds of bacteria. If cockroaches are found, corrective treatment should be taken immediately.

Flies are not only nuisance pests, many add to disease transmission. Fly control is one of the more challenging pest control problems as larval development sites must be located and eliminated for success. Sanitation and exclusion should be a primary focus when resolving a fly infestation.

Developing a proper IPM program is essential for a variety of facility types, and contributes to the health and safety of building occupants. Facility cleaning managers should partner with a reputable pest management firm to develop a specific program suited for their unique needs.

[everythingpestcontrol-blog]

Cockroach Control

Cockroach control is one of the single most challenging pest control issues out there. Unfortunately, choosing any single method of extermination is setting yourself up for failure. Cockroaches are just too geared towards survival for any one method to do the trick. Instead, the best method is a comprehensive plan that includes keeping a sanitary home along with the use of baits, dusts, pheromone traps, growth regulators, and when necessary, insecticides.

Keep a Clean House

In order to combat a cockroach problem, it’s important to understand how these bugs think. Cockroaches in house are survivors, and as such their primary concerns include eating, drinking, and making more cockroaches. As long as there’s shelter and a source of food and water present, they will do their best to make themselves at home. That being said, the first step in any cockroach extermination is making things a little less hospitable. Make sure all foodstuffs are sealed and stored away when they’re not being used and never leave food out that’s not being eaten. That includes dirty dishes, old pizza boxes, crumbs on the floor, even dog food should be put away at night. Also, be sure to fix any leaky pipes as cockroaches are drawn to those high moisture areas as well.

Find out Where They’re Living

Once you’ve addressed your end of the problem, the next step is identifying where they’re living so you can try to close off and eliminate those areas. Look for cracks, holes, and other small spaces behind counters, appliances and in cabinets. Cockroaches in houses like tight, dark places. By identifying these places and sealing them off (usually with some kind of caulking material), you’re taking another big step towards on getting grid of your unwanted guests.

Poison Central

Once you’ve identified where your infestation problem has its origins, you can start assaulting that area with wide range of cockroach extermination products. Baits and dusts make for great cockroach solutions for several reasons. First of all, the poison kills any cockroach who comes in contact with them. Secondly, cockroaches are cannibals and any dead cockroach will quickly be eaten by others. If a cockroach dies of poisoning, then all the cockroaches who snack on him are likely to suffer the same fate.

Pheromone Traps and Growth Regulators

Besides poisoning, pheromone traps are an effective form of control as well. The traps emit a pheromone scent that cockroaches interpret as another roach ready to mate. They are attracted to the trap, head inside for some good times, and quickly find themselves stuck and dying. The other product that addresses the reproductive side of things are growth regulators. It’s a spray that when applied to immature cockroaches damages their ability to reproduce, heading the problem off at the source.

Should You Use Insecticide?

Insecticides haven’t proven to be as effective with cockroaches in house as with some other insects. Because of their high reproductive rate, many cockroach communities have developed resistance to insecticides, and cockroaches will often retreat from a treated area to another place in the house until the insecticide wears off. You might not see too many roaches for a while, but it doesn’t mean they won’t be back, either.

By far the best approach to cockroach control includes utilizing all of the tactics mentioned above, and more if you can find them. Also, keep in mind that cockroaches give even the pros a rough time. Honestly, your chances of eradicating them yourself are pretty slim. If you’re suffering from an infestation, your best bet is to call in a pest control company with a proven track record of total cockroach extermination.

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Ant Control 101

Ant control is a common pest control problem across the country. While there are many different types of ants that find their way into our homes, including pavement ants, carpenter ants, odorous house ants, thief ants, fire ants, and pharaoh ants, just to name a few, for the most part the strategies for dealing with them are all the same.

Get Them Where It Counts

Far and away the biggest mistake homeowners make when facing ant infestation is to kill the ants they can see as quickly as possible and hope they’ve solved the problem. Whether you’re using an insecticide spray or your shoe, however, you’re missing the boat if this is your preferred course of action. While it may seem like there’s a lot of ants marching across your kitchen floor, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s anywhere from several hundred to several thousand more in a nest nearby. And that includes at least one egg-laying queen who is doing her best to increase those numbers by the day. Spraying the ten or twenty making their way to the pantry might make you feel productive, but what you really need to do is find a way to get rid of that nest.

A Solution to the Problem: Ant Baits

Perhaps the best solution for indoor ant control is to set out ant baits throughout your home. Ants are drawn to the “food” inside the baits (which is really poison) and then will take it back to the nest to share it with others. It’s really the only way to attack the nest where your ant problem is originating. When laying your bait try to do so next to scent trails (invisible trails that ants follow to get to a specific place. It’s why they all walk together in such perfect lines). You’ll get more traffic by doing so and the ants in house will come across the bait faster. Also, never spray ants that are gathering around the bait. Remember, the goal is that they take the poison back to the next. Don’t kill them before they get the chance. Finally, be sure to place bait traps out of reach of pets and children, since they are toxic and harmful if played with or swallowed.

Outdoors

Some ant control issues aren’t solved indoors. There are ants that next outdoors and travel in to find food and water. And there are ants, such as fire ants, that generally stay outdoors, but present a nuisance or danger for homeowners. In the case of these types of ants, find the nest or anthill, then douse it with a liquid insecticide. Don’t skimp here. There more you apply and the deeper the treatment penetrates into the mound, the better your results will be. To prevent outdoor ants from becoming ants in house, you can also apply an insecticide/repellent around the outside edge of your home. Spray a 2-3 foot strip of insecticide at the base of your home, as well as a 2-3 foot strip on the ground around it. This should help repel ants looking for a way inside.

Final Thoughts

Remember, most outdoor ants are actually very beneficial to your yard and plants. They clean up plant debris, dead bugs, and often help control other insect pests. Don’t eradicate them unless you’ve got good reason to. Finally, keep in mind that certain species of ants, including carpenter and odorous ants, can be a very difficult ant problem to eradicate (and in the case of carpenter ants, can result in structural damage if your extermination isn’t successful). If you’ve got a persistent ant problem that won’t go away, it’s probably a good idea to bring in a pest control professional. They have access to ant control techniques and products that aren’t available to the general public.

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9 Pest Control Tips to Keep Pests Away

Nothing ruins a picnic like a line of ants. Nothing ruins a barbecue like a swarm of mosquitoes. And nothing ruins a morning like spotting a spider, cockroach, or mouse somewhere in your house.

Keep bugs and critters away from your home and yard this summer with these 10 best pest control practices.

1. Block Their Entry to Your Home

Your first line of defense is to make it difficult for pests to even find an entry to your home. Check all your screens for holes, and repair if you find any. Check around your doors and windows for gaps, and replace window stripping when needed.

2. Clean Your Kitchen

A pile of crumbs on your counter or floor is like a treasure chest to ants and other insects. Let them find treasure elsewhere - outside and far away from your home - by making sure you offer no treasure to be found in your own kitchen. Wipe your counters, sweep your floors, put food away immediately, and take out the trash regularly.

3. Get Rid of Standing Water

Getting rid of standing water is the first step to control mosquitoes. Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and a big, fat invitation for mosquitoes to start a family. It’s easy to miss standing water sometimes, so regularly walk your property to check for it. Look in rain spouts, check for leaks near your air conditioning unit, and pick up toys left scattered throughout the yard.

4. Maintain Your Yard

Keep your landscaping maintained to avoid overgrowth that is perfect for pests and their nests. Trim bushes and trees that are near the house, rake up debris, and yes - you’re also going to have to weed.

5. Eat Your Fruits and Veggies

Don’t let fruits and veggies get overly ripe on your counter. If you do, the fruit flies will invite themselves in for a spell and eliminating fruit flies is a headache you don’t want.

6. Store Your Firewood Properly

Don’t give termites free access to your home. If you store firewood, keep it away from your house or shed. As far away as possible, actually. Five feet should be the minimum distance, but if you can store it even farther away, you’ll be in better shape. Also, store it in racks above the ground.

7. Don’t Throw Meat Outside Too Soon

Try not to throw meat scraps in your outside garbage unless the garbage will be picked up in the next 48 hours or so. The combination of rotting meat and summer sun could bring unwanted pests to your yard alarmingly fast.

8. Inspect Swings and Outdoor Furniture

Regularly check the chains and corners of your swing sets and outdoor furniture for spider webs and egg sacks. Remove them when you see them.

9. Don’t Bring the Outside In

Keep outside toys outside and inside toys inside. If you have to bring in a toy, chair, or table, thoroughly wipe it down first.

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Itching for a Solution on Mosquito Control?

During the summer months, mosquito control is a must almost anywhere. They are annoying, numerous, and resilient. They have been known to spread diseases including the West Nile and Zika virus. Even worse, they are notorious picnic and barbecue crashers. There is hope, however. With the right tools and a bit of effort, it’s possible to control mosquito populations in many different situations and climates.

Mosquito Problem Prevention

Mosquitoes thrive in damp areas, but you don’t have to live in a swamp to have a mosquito problem. Swamps are full of standing water, which makes them an ideal place for mosquitoes to breed. Standing water, however, is not necessarily a swamp. If you are seeing a large number of mosquitoes in or around your home, they are most likely breeding somewhere on your property. Clogged rain gutters, bird baths, fountains, rain barrels, plant trays—any one of these can provide enough standing water to harbor a mosquito population. The best form of mosquito extermination is prevention. Make sure that any place around your home where water sits for extended periods is kept clean or the water is regularly replaced (at least once a week is recommended).

Mosquito Control

While you can take measures to minimize standing water around your own home, it’s unlikely that you can do the same for your entire community. Mosquitoes don’t give a hoot about property lines, and they won’t call before they drop by.

Aside from the obligatory citronella candles and bug zappers, there are other precautions you can take to keep mosquitoes away from your home. Examine all of your doors and windows. Replace any screens that are damaged (and therefore not “bug tight”). Exchange any white outdoor light bulbs with yellow ones, which attract fewer bugs. Set traps around your property and replace (or replenish) them regularly. Netting or screens can be installed or put up temporarily to help seal off porches, decks, and similar structures. Using mosquito repellent is suggested when spending long periods of time outdoors.

Mosquito Extermination

Mosquito extermination is not recommended on an individual level, as the chemicals used to kill populations should be handled by professionals. At the very least, a professional should be consulted before any mosquito extermination plan is put into effect.

Certain areas require state and local government assistance to control mosquitoes. These places have severe problems that pose a distinct health risk. Governments focus on the entire life cycle from larvae to adult. They use both chemical and biological methods of extermination. Public mosquito control programs are designed to pose very little risk to individual people (pesticide concentration is very low—around 3 ounces per acre is used to kill adult mosquitoes). In the areas where mosquito populations are densest, these programs are literally lifesavers.

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How Integrated Pest Management Prevents...

Managers of large facilities face unique challenges when it comes to pest management programs. As some of these facilities tend to house more sensitive populations — children, young adults and ill people — there is an even greater responsibility to keep occupants safe from the serious health threats posed by the presence of pests. Yet, to do so often requires more specialized, focused pest management plans, which are a direct result of a partnership between a pest management company and the facility’s staff — especially those performing custodial duties.

As the custodial staff typically performs their duties after hours, they are more apt to notice problems or signs of infestations than other employees. Educating the custodial staff about the dangers of pests, conditions that attract pests, and how to recognize problems can go a long way in preventing or quickly eliminating a growing infestation.  

This proactive effort is at the root of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a process that combines common sense and sound solutions for treating and controlling pests.  The focus is on finding the best treatment for a pest problem, and not merely the simplest.  

Pest professionals never employ a “one size fits all” method in IPM, but rather, utilize a three-part practice:

1) inspection,

2) identification and

3) treatment by a pest professional.

Treatment options in IPM can vary from sealing cracks to removing food and water sources to employing control products, when necessary

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Common Pests An How They Get Into Facilities

There are a variety of pests that plague vulnerable facilities. In fact, many pests — in search of food, water and shelter — find comfort in the environments facilities provide. Understanding the most frequent offenders will help managers prevent future pest problems.

Birds are considered to be an occasional invader and may enter a facility looking for a place to roost or nest. While food-related facilities provide the perfect combination of food and shelter, birds can become problematic at a variety of facilities. These pests can damage or destroy property and are considered to be a health concern as they eat and contaminate food items.

Managers should be on the lookout for signs of bird activity, which can indicate a problem. One of the most common signs is the presence of droppings. Pigeon droppings, in particular, are very acidic and can deface marble, limestone, painted surfaces and even car finishes.

Rodents are known to destroy a variety of materials and cause structural damage as they gnaw through wallboards, wood, plaster and electrical wiring. In addition to being a structural nightmare, rodents are a medical concern, as they are known to transmit various diseases and can contaminate food.

Mice are the most commonly encountered and economically important of all the commensal rodents. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a dime and are prolific breeders that can transmit disease by contaminating food with their droppings and/or urine.

Norway rats are the largest of the commensal rodents and the most commonly encountered rats in temperate environments. They are capable of entering buildings through openings the size of a quarter and are known to destroy materials by gnawing, contaminating stored food products and are vectors of many diseases.

Roof Rats are the smaller of the two commensal rats and more common in subtropical and tropical regions, but are just as problematic.

Ants, due to their sophisticated social structure, small size and efficiency at finding food, can become problematic in a variety of settings. These insects can reproduce at a rapid rate, and their small size allows them to enter structures through the tiniest cracks and crevices, making them difficult to control.

Cockroaches are one of the more prolific pests, often found in facilities that provide access to food and water. They enter facilities organically and are often brought in via deliveries. They are considered to be a major health and safety concern as they are capable of spreading nearly 33 different kinds of bacteria. If cockroaches are found, corrective treatment should be taken immediately.

Flies are not only nuisance pests, many add to disease transmission. Fly control is one of the more challenging pest control problems as larval development sites must be located and eliminated for success. Sanitation and exclusion should be a primary focus when resolving a fly infestation.

Developing a proper IPM program is essential for a variety of facility types, and contributes to the health and safety of building occupants. Facility cleaning managers should partner with a reputable pest management firm to develop a specific program suited for their unique needs.

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Different Methods of Insect Extermination

There are many facets to insect extermination. To have a better understanding of these facets, it is important to have several key pieces of information, such as the location of the infestation, which kind of pests you have, and the consequences of exterminating them. There are several methods available for insect extermination: hiring a professional, using naturally occurring materials and compounds, and using organic methods, like soap and water.

Hire an Exterminator for Insect Extermination

Only a professional should use chemical pesticides for insect extermination purposes. Hiring an exterminator provides the most comprehensive pest control coverage possible, since his or her years of experience and training can cover all of your pest control needs. If you know you have an infestation but do not know where the colony is or which insect it may be, an exterminator can determine both things by searching for clues, such as the type of damage done or what type of food the insects prefer. Hiring an exterminator is the safest and most effective method of insect extermination.

Use Boric Acid for Insect Extermination

Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound that is incredibly useful for controlling pests. Boric acid acts as an insecticide and is effective at killing many insects. Boric acid is most commonly a white powder, and you should mix it with cocoa or powdered sugar as bait for maximum efficiency. It poisons the stomach of any insect that eats it, and is abrasive to insects’ exoskeletons. Boric acid’s strength is in its ability to devastate an entire hive or colony. Once one of the insects takes some boric acid back to the hive or colony, it spreads and eventually eliminates the infestation outright. Though not an immediate means of insect extermination, it is a far safer one than using traditional pesticides, since boric acid is non-toxic to humans and is safe to use around children, pets, or the kitchen area.

Use Diatomaceous Earth for Insect Extermination

Diatomaceous earth is composed of the fossilized remains of single-celled plants present many years ago. Since it is comprised mostly of silica, manufacturers can easily crush diatomaceous earth into an incredibly fine powder. One of the main benefits of diatomaceous earth is its efficiency in insect extermination. Though it is not poisonous to insects, it is incredibly abrasive and works to absorb lipids from insects’ exoskeletons, which causes them to dehydrate after a short period. Though generally you would use either boric acid or diatomaceous earth, you can use both in conjunction with appropriate bait to obtain excellent results.

Use Soap and Water/Boiling Water for Insect Extermination

Mix six tablespoons of dish detergent with a half-gallon of water in a bucket. Pour or splash this onto insects’ colony or hive. If you are dealing with bees, hornets, or wasps, you should wait until night and wear heavy protective clothing. Keep in mind that repeat applications may be necessary. Though not as immediately effective as chemical pesticides, using soap and water is an easy do-it-yourself pest control technique. You should exercise caution when trying to eliminate insect infestations yourself, as some insect infestations can be dangerous. Boiling water is typically only effective against anthills and colonies. You need about six gallons of boiling water per colony, and repeat applications are likely necessary.

There are many methods of insect extermination. Hiring a professional is easily the best and most effective method, though some do-it-yourself methods are available. Always exercise caution if attempting insect extermination yourself, since it can be a dangerous task. For more information about insects or exterminating them effectively, contact a local pest control company.