Pest Control Tips: Protect Your Pets from Fleas and Ticks this Summer

If you think that your pets and family are safe from fleas or ticks as long as the pests stay in your yard, then this is not true. This is not a guarantee. Fleas, ticks and other parasites will take advantage of any opportunity to attach themselves to us or our animals. Follow these best pest control practices for flea and tick control to keep your family and pets safe during the tick and flea season.

Keep your pets safe from fleas and ticks

What Are Fleas and Ticks?

It can be difficult to distinguish between ticks and fleas due to their similar size and color. Here’s how you can tell them apart.

Fleas

The fleas are the smaller of the two. The exoskeletons are shiny and reddish brown. Fleas are difficult to see at only 2.5 mm long, especially if you have a pet with dark hair. The fleas don’t possess wings but make up for it by jumping extremely high. They can jump up to eight inches, which is about 150 times their body height. It’s pretty amazing! It’s important to treat your home for fleas every year. Fleas will infest the areas where your cat or dog likes to nap. The fleas bite pets and people but do not live in humans like other pests such as ticks. Fleas are usually brought inside by our pets. The bites of fleas cause red, swollen and itchy bumps. In extreme cases, your dog may have an allergic reaction.

Ticks

Ticks do not have the same ambition as fleas. Fleas use their ability to jump onto your pet when it passes. Ticks can’t jump well. Ticks prefer to hide under tall grasses, where they can grab onto leaves and stems to cling on to and wait until an animal or person brushes against them. They will then latch on to the victim. They can survive on humans for a long time, unlike fleas. They can be brown, reddish-brown, black, or yellow. Some are about the size of fleas, but most are several millimetres bigger – especially when they’re engorged with venom.

Fleas and ticks can carry diseases

When bitten by a tick or flea, it’s common to experience an itchy bump that typically subsides within a few days. However, it’s important to recognize that these seemingly harmless bites can lead to more serious conditions. For instance, both you and your pet are at risk of contracting illnesses such as Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Equine Encephalitis, and even tapeworm infestation.

Beyond the immediate discomfort, certain individuals may develop unexpected allergies to red meat following a bite. This allergic reaction can occur after repeated exposure to tick bites and can lead to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe allergic responses.

How to Get Rid of Fleas and Ticks

Hiring a Myrtle Beach pest control company is the best and most efficient way to prevent infestations. Top Lawn provides a tick and flea control treatment for your outdoor area to eliminate the bug problem at its root. There are many other ways to protect yourself and your pets besides a professional application.

Do not neglect the mowing schedule

Fleas and ticks are attracted to taller grass, just like many other pests. Keep your lawn mowed so that fleas and other pests are not attracted to your yard.

Do not provide sources of water, food, or shelter

Fleas and ticks will not stay around if they can’t find shelter or water. You can protect your pets by following these tips.

• Do not let your pet romp in tall ornamental grasses
• Seal the undersides of decks and porches to prevent your pets from crawling beneath them
• Overwatering can attract not only mosquitoes but also fleas and ticks.
• Leaves, twigs and grass clippings or any other organic matter should not be piled up on your lawn
• Check Your Pets after they’ve been outdoors.
• The flea comb can be used to remove any bugs that have ridden along with your pet. Don’t forget that fleas or ticks can be hiding between the pads of your dog’s paws.

Install a Privacy Fence

Consider installing a privacy fence if your property is adjacent to a swamp or wooded area. This barrier will prevent pets from running into the woods, and it will also slow down the spread of fleas and ticks. If you have a playscape, treehouse, deck, patio, porch or any other hardscaping features, consider moving them away from wooded areas. If you are considering adding hardscaping to your yard, place it away from wooded areas. It will reduce the chance of pests invading the structure. Don’t worry if your hardscaping is not easily movable. Zap Pest Control Inc. will identify and treat all hotspots of flea and tick activity.

Hire Pest Control Services at Myrtle Beach SC

Zap Pest Control Inc. has been protecting thousands of homes for years from the dangerous and painful bites of ticks and fleas. Our summer insect program will rid your home of ticks, fleas and other irritating bugs throughout the season! Our applications are timed so that there is never a lapse in coverage.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

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Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Pest Control Tips: Health Risks Of Having Pests At Home

Insects that invade your home can pose a number of health risks. Death can result from severe allergic reactions caused by certain insect stings. You can better protect yourself, your family, and your home if you are aware of the health risks that insects may pose. That’s why pest control is essential if your home is infested.

Pest Control Tips: Health Risks Of Pest Infestation

Biting Insects

Bed bugs, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and kissing bugs are all biting insects. A bite from one of these pests can cause minor swelling, pain, and itching. In rare cases, bites from insects can cause the same severe allergic reaction that is more often associated with stinging insect bites.

Stinging Insects

The venom that stinging insects inject into the body can cause a potentially life-threatening reaction. Honeybees are among the most common stinging insect species that can cause allergic reactions.

The typical reactions to an insect’s sting are very similar to the ones that occur after an insect bite. The swelling, pain, and redness around the affected area can subside by themselves in a few hours or days. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic response that requires immediate medical care.

Allergic Reaction Symptoms and Signs

Allergic reactions are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to an allergen. In the case of an insect sting, this would be venom. Allergic reactions can cause symptoms in multiple body parts that are not near the sting. These include the skin, heart, lungs, and digestive system. The signs include:

• Hives, itching, and rashes
• Swelling in the mouth, throat, or tongue
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, and difficulty breathing
• Dizziness or fainting
• Bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain
• Feelings of anxiety or fear that something bad is about to happen
• Consciousness loss

Other Serious Reactions

Insect venom can cause more than just allergic reactions. In some people, the venom can cause a toxic response or serum sickness.

Toxic reactions are when the body reacts as though it is poisoning. This condition is characterized by symptoms that are similar to those of an allergic reaction. These include fever, nausea, seizures, shock, and death.

The body reacts abnormally to the venom. Joint pain, fever, and other flu-like symptoms can occur hours or days after the bite or sting.

Other Insects That Don’t Sting or Bite

Some people can be allergic to insects that do not bite or sting. Dust mites and cockroaches are prime examples of this category. Allergy symptoms and asthma attacks have been linked to insect droppings, saliva, and shed skin.

Multiple factors can cause allergy symptoms, asthma attacks, or cockroach skin to trigger. The following factors are involved:

The level of sensitivity to cockroaches that an individual has, as a result of repeated exposure.

Quality of ventilation

A person who lives in an area with poor ventilation and a high roach population for a long time is more likely to experience allergy symptoms, or even asthma attacks, than a person who lives in an area that has good ventilation, but few roaches.

Some people do not suffer from asthma or allergy attacks caused by cockroaches and other insects. This is because they don’t have allergies or asthma. If you suffer from allergies or asthma and suspect that there is a pest infestation at your home, take immediate action to eliminate the pests.

A visit to an allergist or immunologist in the case of allergies can help you identify the cause of your symptoms. Allergy caused by insects is the same as other allergy symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Itchy nose and eyes
• Wheezing
• Scratchy throat

Pest Control Solutions

To keep your family and yourself safe, you must rid your yard and home of any potentially dangerous insects. This is especially true if there are large colonies. You can use preventative pest control measures to keep pests out of your home and landscape.

A professional pest control service can provide regular visits to keep your home and garden free from insects and the associated health risks.

Our team of pest control experts can help you keep your home free from pests. Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now

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Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Importance of Regular Pest Inspection for Maintaining a Healthy Home

When it comes to maintaining a healthy home, one aspect that often gets overlooked is regular pest inspections. Pests can cause a variety of issues, from structural damage to health concerns, which is why both pest inspection and pest control services are crucial. In this blog post, we will explore the top 5 reasons why regular pest inspections are crucial for maintaining a healthy home and how Zap Pest Control can help you achieve this goal.

Pest Control Tips: Why Get Regular Pest Inspection?

1. DETECTING PEST INFESTATION EARLY

One of the primary benefits of regular pest inspections is the early detection of infestations. By catching an infestation in its early stages, you can prevent it from becoming a larger issue that is more difficult and expensive to treat. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pests such as termites cause more than $5 billion in property damage each year in the United States. Regular inspections can help you avoid becoming part of this statistic.

2. PREVENTING STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

As mentioned earlier, pests like termites can cause significant structural damage to your home. Other pests, such as carpenter ants and rodents, can also wreak havoc on your home’s structure. By conducting regular pest inspections, you can identify the presence of these pests and take appropriate action to prevent them from causing further damage. This can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs and help maintain the structural integrity of your home.

3. PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

Many pests, such as rodents and cockroaches, can carry diseases that can be harmful to humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rodents can spread more than 35 diseases to humans, while cockroaches can carry bacteria like E. coli and salmonella. Regular pest inspections can help you identify and address any pest-related health risks before they become a serious issue for you and your family.

4. MAINTAINING A CLEAN AND COMFORTABLE LIVING ENVIRONMENT

Pests can also have a significant impact on the cleanliness and comfort of your living environment. Insects like cockroaches and ants can contaminate food and surfaces, while rodents can leave behind droppings and urine that create unpleasant odors. Regular pest inspections can help you identify and address these issues, ensuring that your home remains clean and comfortable for you and your family.

5. PRESERVING YOUR HOME’S VALUE

Finally, regular pest inspections can help preserve the value of your home. A well-maintained home is more attractive to potential buyers, and addressing any pest issues early on can prevent costly repairs down the line. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), a professional pest inspection can even increase the resale value of your home by up to 6%.

In conclusion, regular pest inspections in Myrtle Beach are crucial for maintaining a healthy home. They can help you detect infestations early, prevent structural damage, protect your family’s health, maintain a clean and comfortable living environment, and preserve your home’s value.

At Zap Pest Control Inc., we understand the importance of regular pest inspections and offer comprehensive pest control services to help you maintain a healthy home. Contact us today to schedule your next inspection and ensure that your home remains pest-free.

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Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Effective Tips Keeping Mosquitoes Away

Are you struggling to find the best and most effective mosquito control methods for your home and yard? Many homeowners face this challenge, as the options can be overwhelming. While there are numerous mosquito control sprays available in local stores and your area, it’s essential to understand which ones actually work. Surprisingly, some people claim that none of them do. Let’s explore why.

Mosquito repellent sprays typically work in two ways. They either repel insects due to the chemicals they contain or kill the insects on contact. However, these sprays are often inefficient and ineffective when it comes to long-term mosquito control. Any effects they have tend to be short-lived, with mosquitoes returning within a couple of hours.

Choosing the Right Mosquito Control Method

Instead of relying on temporary solutions, it’s worth considering more permanent and effective mosquito control systems. Zap Pest Control offers mosquito control services, including in locations where mosquito-borne infections are common. But how do you choose the best one and gain access to their services? Here are some tips for selecting the ideal mosquito repellent for your yard and achieving effective mosquito control at home.

Select the Right Chemical
Mosquito control systems and sprays rely on specific insecticides to eliminate insects. These insecticides are designed to kill a wide range of insects, not just mosquitoes. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the chemicals present in a mosquito spray. Avoid blindly choosing one based on marketing claims alone. Some chemicals can be more harmful to the environment or humans than others.

For instance, DEET (N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), an insecticide developed by the US army during World War II, is highly effective but can be harmful, especially to children. On the other hand, permethrin, a synthetic mosquito control chemical derived from chrysanthemums, offers a safer alternative for you, your family, and your pets.

The key is to make an informed decision based on what’s best for your specific situation. If you have no pets, family members with sensitivities, or frequent backyard gatherings, DEET may be an option. However, if you do have these considerations, opting for permethrin is a wiser choice. It’s equally effective and significantly safer, especially for mosquito control at home rather than around commercial properties.

Determine the Best Mosquito Repellent for Your Backyard

When it comes to your backyard, the best mosquito repellent is one that prioritizes the safety of your pets and family members. As mentioned earlier, permethrin is likely the most suitable option. You can even explore permethrin mosquito control misting units, which provide long-term control after the initial treatment. However, it’s important to choose what you feel most comfortable with. Starting with a natural mosquito control unit and switching to a permethrin mosquito misting system if needed is a viable approach.

Residential mosquito control requires careful consideration. The best mosquito repellent for your backyard may not be your personal preference, but what truly works should be the ultimate deciding factor. Generally, a permethrin-based solution strikes the best balance between effectiveness and safety. Opting for permethrin significantly reduces the risks associated with mosquito infestations, offering minimal hazards compared to mosquito bites.

If you need professional assistance in eliminating mosquitoes from your home, don’t hesitate to contact Zap Pest Control Inc.

People Also Asked

1. What are the most effective methods for mosquito control at home?

Some of the most effective methods for mosquito control at home include:

• Removing stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed, such as emptying containers, cleaning gutters, and maintaining swimming pools.
• Using mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin.
• Installing screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
• Using mosquito nets while sleeping.
• Employing outdoor mosquito control measures, such as mosquito traps or citronella candles.

1. Are mosquito control sprays safe to use around pets and children?

The safety of mosquito control sprays depends on the specific product and its ingredients. Some sprays, particularly those containing DEET, can be harmful to pets and children if not used properly. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and use caution when applying any chemical-based products. Alternatively, you can opt for natural mosquito control methods or consult a professional pest control service for guidance.

1. How long do mosquito control sprays last?

Mosquito control sprays typically provide temporary relief and their effectiveness varies. The duration of their effectiveness depends on factors such as the spray formulation, outdoor conditions, and mosquito activity levels. In general, sprays may offer a few hours of protection before needing to be reapplied. It’s important to read the instructions on the product label to determine the recommended reapplication frequency.

1. Can mosquito control methods completely eliminate mosquitoes?

While mosquito control methods can significantly reduce mosquito populations, complete elimination is challenging. Mosquitoes are resilient insects and can breed rapidly in various environments. Effective mosquito control involves implementing a combination of strategies, such as source reduction, repellents, and habitat management. It’s important to maintain consistent efforts to control mosquitoes rather than expecting complete eradication.

1. Should I hire a professional pest control service for mosquito control?

Hiring a professional pest control service for mosquito control can be beneficial, especially if you’re dealing with a severe mosquito infestation or have difficulty managing mosquitoes on your own. Professionals have expertise in identifying mosquito breeding sites, applying appropriate treatments, and implementing long-term control measures. They can provide tailored solutions based on your specific situation and help you achieve better results in managing mosquitoes.

Remember to choose a reputable and licensed pest control company that uses safe and effective methods for mosquito control.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Eliminating Ant Infestations in Your Home

Dealing with ant infestations is a common issue in many households, causing annoyance and frustration for homeowners. The severity of the problem can vary from occasional ant sightings to large-scale infestations that are difficult to eradicate. If you’re facing an ant infestation, it’s important to understand what pest control experts can do to help.

Identifying the Cause and Ant Species

When you enlist the services of a pest control company, their first step is to determine the cause and identify the specific ant species involved. This information is crucial in devising an effective pest control treatment plan tailored to your situation.

Evaluating the Extent of Infestation

The next stage involves assessing the severity of the infestation to determine the appropriate treatment method. Pest control professionals gather relevant information to develop a targeted plan. Factors such as potential risks to adults, children, and pets need to be considered to ensure the chosen treatment is safe and effective.

Applying the Right Treatment

Once the pest control experts have identified and evaluated the ant infestation, they will proceed with the appropriate treatment. While common insecticides may be effective, they can pose risks if ingested by humans or animals. Therefore, safer alternatives are preferred to ensure the well-being of your family. The chosen treatment should efficiently eliminate a significant number of ants, especially if it involves directly targeting large ant colonies.

If you require assistance in eliminating pests from your home, consider contacting Zap Pest Control Inc. Their team of professionals can provide the expertise needed to effectively address your pest problem.

People Also Asked:

Q: How can I get rid of ants naturally?

A: There are several natural methods you can try. Some options include using vinegar, lemon juice, cinnamon, peppermint oil, or a mixture of borax and sugar to repel or eliminate ants.

Q: Are there any specific plants or herbs that repel ants?

A: Yes, certain plants and herbs are known to repel ants. Examples include peppermint, lavender, sage, and citrus plants. Planting these near entry points or using their essential oils can help deter ants.

Q: How can I prevent ants from entering my home in the first place?

A: To prevent ants, seal cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation and around windows and doors. Keep your house clean, store food in airtight containers, and promptly clean up spills. Remove potential ant attractants, such as standing water or food crumbs.

Q: Are there any non-toxic ant repellents I can use around my house?

A: Yes, there are non-toxic ant repellents available. Options include using diatomaceous earth, which is a natural powder that damages ants’ exoskeletons, or creating barriers with substances like baking soda, baby powder, or chalk.

Q: Can sealing cracks and gaps in my home help prevent ants from entering?

A: Yes, sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior can help prevent ants from finding entry points. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows, doors, and other potential entry areas.

Q: How long does it typically take to get rid of an ant infestation?

A: The duration to eliminate an ant infestation varies based on factors such as the size of the infestation, the ant species, and the chosen control method. It can take a few days to several weeks to completely eradicate the infestation.

Q: Is it necessary to hire professional pest control services to eliminate ants?

A: If the infestation is severe, persistent, or poses health risks, it may be beneficial to consult a professional pest control service for more extensive treatment and prevention measures.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when trying to eradicate ants?

A: Common mistakes include using repellents without eliminating the source, not identifying the ant species correctly, using excessive pesticide sprays, and not maintaining proper cleanliness and hygiene practices to discourage ant activity.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

What Should You Do First If You Notice Signs of Pests?

One of the worst things that could happen to you is a pest infestation. Some pests can be more dangerous and annoying than others. Their footprints can be frightening, whether they are bed bugs, mice, spiders, or any other pests. Do not let the infestation grow out of control by remaining inactive. Here are some pest control tips you need to know.

Pest Control Tips You Need To Know

Rats/Mice

Rats or mice can be very common and frightening pest.

Signs

We need to first define what evidence you can look for to determine if there are signs of mice or rats.

• Footprints – these tiny tracks can be found in dusty areas such as the basement or loft.
• Droppings are the surest sign of a rodent invasion.
• You can’t miss the smell of urine. These little menaces are very frequent urinators, and urine puddles will be visible along with their droppings.
• You may find teeth marks on cables, rubbery items, or other things.
• You will probably notice the wall scratching as the first sign. Other noises they make include clattering in lofts and squeaking.

Pest Control Tips: What to do if you see signs of rats or mice

What should you do after you have noticed your first sign? What should you do?

Do not panic. If you discover that a mouse has intruded into your home, the first thing you will do is panic. This will not help. Stay calm and keep moving forward.

Next, you need to inspect your property and find out where they are coming from. Search your entire property. Most people look in the kitchen, bathroom, or basement. Every kitchen cabinet, closet corner, wall cavity, etc. should be checked.

After you have located the rodent entrances, set traps and baits.

Block all entry points, such as holes in the walls, cracks on doors, and windows.

If nothing else works and the rodents are still in your home, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional to control them. They will inspect the property and look for other hiding spots that you may have missed. They will use the most effective treatment to eliminate mice and rats for as long as possible.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are the second worst pests to infest your house after rodents. Bed bugs are tiny and you can hardly see them before they bite. These are bloodthirsty animals that are hard to eliminate.

Signs

Bed bugs are most commonly identified by:

• Bed bugs expel the blood that they have consumed. You may see blood stains on your bed or furniture such as your couch.
• Bed bugs excrete black stains. They can usually be found on bed sheets, mattresses, or under the mattress.
• When bed bugs reproduce they leave behind eggshells in the area.
• Bites: if you wake up with itchy bumps, you’ll probably be the first to notice them. You will then start searching for their source.
• You’ve discovered the bed bugs.

Bed Bugs: What to do if you see signs?

After you’ve determined that your home is infested with bed bugs, you need to act.

Do not throw away your mattress, or any other furniture. You may be tempted to do so immediately. This will spread the infestation, not the other way around.

Do not sleep in another bedroom: bedbugs can detect you, even if your room is infested. Changing it won’t work, but they will still follow you.

Washed sheets, linen, and clothes. Put all clothing, sheets, or mattress covers in a bag to get rid of bed bugs and eggs. Wash them at a temperature of 60degC or higher.

It is impossible to deal with bed bugs on your own. Even chemical treatments can sometimes fail to produce the best results and some bugs will survive. Heat treatment is recommended against bedbugs. This treatment is 100% effective. It is a machine that heats up the room to 56degC, which kills all the adults and eggs.

Cockroaches

These nasty, dirty, crawling insects are a real pain. These are the only ones who can survive any kind of war, including a nuclear war. How can you spot them?

Signs

They look like very small, blackish grains of rice. Most often, they can be seen in clusters and not just two or three of them.

The eggs are another sign of cockroaches. Cockroaches can lay 40-50 brown oval-shaped eggs. Don’t be shocked if dirt is found in your kitchen cabinet. It’s not as you might think. Learn more about cockroaches.

Cockroaches emit a musty smell that is unpleasant and will not go unnoticed.

Pest Control Tips: How to Deal with Cockroaches

What should you do as soon as you notice cockroaches in your home?

Find out where they are hiding.

Cleaning the kitchen is important, so make sure to clean the entire area, including the floors, counters, tables and cabinets. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you should not maintain high standards of hygiene throughout your home.

Use chemical products, such as baits, traps, or sprays with residual effects. You can use DE or Borax as natural treatments, but they are not enough. Call a professional exterminator to get rid of cockroaches.

Wasp nest

Nests of stinging insects are often found near the garden, where there is a lot of flowers and vegetation.

Signs

Wasps buzzing in your garden is the most obvious sign. Wasps can be common in spring and summer, but if you see a lot of them, it could indicate a nest.

Wasp Nests: What to do if you see signs?

Read the tips on what you should and shouldn’t do if there is a nest of wasps near your home or garden.

Follow the trail of the wasps to the nest.

You will only get in trouble if you poke the nest or try to break it down. Wasps will attack you if you irritate them.

After you have located the nest, contact an expert to help. The exterminators safely treat the nest of wasps so that they eventually leave the nest and will not return.

After you have confirmed that the nest is empty you can remove it to ensure the wasps will not return. The exterminator can inspect all corners if you were unable to locate the nest.

Do you have a problem with an infestation of pests? You do not have to fight pests alone. You can hire a pest expert. Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about pest control services.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Keeping Kitchens Pest-Free

Pests are unwelcome guests in kitchens, where food is stored, cooked, and eaten. That’s why pest control is a must. Cockroaches and other pests such as fruit flies, rodents, and cockroaches are all able to find their way inside the kitchen, contaminating food, spreading bacteria, and destroying a space that is “sacred”.

The National Pest Management Association reminds homeowners that as many families prepare for seasons which includes a lot of cooking, baking, and leftovers, many pests will be looking for food and shelter, often in houses.

Kitchen Pest Dangers

Cockroaches

It’s hard to imagine anything more disgusting than a cockroach running into a corner, or hiding under the refrigerator as you enter the house. Cockroaches can spread 33 types of bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella. They also carry six parasitic worms as well as more than seven different human pathogens. Their saliva, droppings, and decomposing bodies also contain allergens that can trigger allergies and worsen asthma symptoms.

Rodents

These sharp-toothed disease carriers infest 21 million U.S. homes each winter, bringing with them a host of hazards. They can also carry ticks, fleas, lice, and other pests that cause disease. Rodents are also capable of chewing through electrical wires and wood, increasing the danger of a house fire. Rodents are a nuisance, but prevention is key. A female mouse can produce up to 12 young every three weeks.

Fruit Flies

Contrary to popular opinion, these flies are not “born” of rotting fruits. They do not originate from their interior. They can detect the yeast that is produced by fermenting fruits, even at a distance. They can easily enter homes through tiny cracks or crevices once they’ve identified their target. They are also not deterred by most window screens.

Pantry Pests

The insects are attracted to food stored in cabinets and pantries, such as chocolate, candy, spice, and flour. Some pantry pests are Indian meal moths, ants and several types of beetles.

Pests: The First Line of Defense is Prevention

NPMA recommends these preventive measures to keep your pantry, kitchen, and holiday treats pest-free. Remove any spills or crumbs from shelves, counters, tables, and floors. Keep food in airtight containers, and dispose of waste regularly in sealed containers. Buy only food that is in sealed packaging and shows no signs of damage. Add a bay leaf to packages and canisters of grains and dry goods such as flour, rice, or other grains. Their pungent smell repels many pantry pests. Before using, check the expiration date on all baking ingredients.

Check your fruit often on the counter for signs of decay or over-ripeness. Fruit flies can lay up to 500 eggs per female on the surface. It is best to discard the fruit outside to avoid the eggs hatching inside your trash.

• Run your garbage disposal regularly.
• Do not let dirty dishes accumulate in the sink.
• Do not leave the water and food bowls out for long periods.
• Repair damaged screens and install door sweeps to exterior doors.
• Eliminate any moisture sources, such as leaking pipes or clogged drains.
• Seal all cracks around the house and kitchen, particularly around water and stove pipes.

Contact a licensed professional pest control to identify, inspect and treat any pest problems in your home. Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about pest control services.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/