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