subject: While Winter Draws Near, The Rat Populace Grows [print this page] The pests that torture the homemakers of today are some of the most hated, unwanted visitors, and the homemaker wants to eradicate them as quickly as possible. A recent study conducted by The National Pest Control Association, a non-profit umbrella of various pest control companies across the country, Americans are spending a staggering $4.5 billion dollars each year due to damage caused by insects and pests in and around their homes. Aside from the structural and financial damage they bring, pests can also endanger the health and well-being of your family.
Even the best kept and tidiest house in the neighborhood can be targeted by these unwelcome pests. Scientists have discovered that most household pest invasions are not caused by seasonal influences or because of where you live. Due to heating methods we now use in our homes, pests can find the perfect breeding environment all year round. A major spike in rodent populations is generally seen in the fall months as they begin to come indoors for food and shelter when the temperature begins to drop. You end up with a roach infestation when they hop onto your grocery bags and get into your vehicle.
However, there are other insects that just hop onto your clothes or shoes to get inside. As you can tell you have to worry about pest control all year round. You will need more than just a mouse trap or a fly swatter to perform effective pest control, though. Pests thrive on warmth, food and water. All of which humans require themselves to survive.
You are not going to be able to get rid of these appealing pest features entirely, so you will need to take some preventive actions. Take care to clean the areas where pests like to hide and reproduce, such as floor cracks, vents, baseboards, and beneath the stairs. Take out the garbage each and every day and avoid leaving food laying around.
A good preventative measure is to install screens over your windows and doors, make sure there are no cracks outside that can allow access to your home for small pests. Do not buy large amounts of food that you do not plan on eating for some time, and make sure any open packages are locked up tight in containers. #5 - Be diligent about crumbs and food items that get spilled, and be aware of grocery bags or other containers that could harbor pests. Check produce packages when bringing them into the home.
Keep in mind that every pesticide can be damaging if not used in the correct way. Look for pesticides that have an EPA registration number and are labeled for use where you wish to implement them, i.e use in the garden or kitchen etc. Remember that all pest control products can be harmful to the environment as well as to people and pets if they are not used as directed on their labels. Always do make sure to read the safety instructions and follow them. Only use for the role they were designed, so do not use something designed for rats in a bid to kill roaches.
Make sure your children can't reach or get a hold of any unused pesticides. When finished dispose of the pesticides carefully and as directed. If the job appears too great for you to handle call in some professionals. By hiring a true pest control professional you will receive top of the line service from a specialist who can properly and effectively treat your home while taking care to protect the environment. A recently published booklet titled, "The Ten Most Unwanted Common Household Pests and What to Do About Them" is a great resource. Available for a small fee and postage and packaging.
