Frequently Asked Pest Questions
No. We use chemicals that are safe to humans, pets and the environment. Our chemicals are independently evaluated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure their safety and we use them according to EPA regulations.
Mosquitoes transmit at least three human diseases that have been found in the United States. All of them are potentially fatal. These diseases include West Nile Virus, Malaria and Dengue Fever.
Cockroaches are a leading trigger of allergies and asthma attacks. The pests' saliva, droppings and decomposing bodies contain allergen proteins known to trigger allergies and increase the severity of asthma symptoms, especially in children.
Ants often enter homes during the warmer months in search of water and food. Kitchens and bathrooms are the most common hangouts. Carpenter ants, for example, often build nests in damp areas like behind bathroom tiles or under sinks.
If you have pets, be sure to pick up any leftover food and wash the bowls regularly.
Occasionally, inspect sinks, toilets and tubs for any leaks or drips.
Give the bathroom a thorough cleaning by scrubbing the floors with disinfectant cleaner, and wiping down the inside of drawers with warm soapy water.
To keep ants from finding a way inside, homeowners should pest-proof around the outside of the home. Experts recommend sealing any cracks with silicone caulk, repairing holes in window and door screens, replacing weather-stripping, fixing loose mortar around the basement foundation and windows, and keeping tree branches trimmed back and away from the house.
Be aware of stinging insect nesting areas, and use extreme caution when around them. Stinging insects can build their nests in attics, crawlspaces, building corners, under gutters, and under patios or decks.
Seal exterior cracks and crevices to prevent insects from entering a structure and building nests. Stinging insects are attracted to open garbage cans and exposed food. Cover all food when outdoors. Be sure to keep tight fitting lids on garbage cans and empty them regularly.
Do not leave sweet drinks or meats in accessible areas and serve drinks in clear cups so you can easily spot an insect before you sip. Keep food covered in outdoor areas and be sure to remove food and trash after picnics and outdoor events.
Note that DEET and other insect repellents are not effective against bees, wasps and hornets.
Do not swat at stinging insects as it may provoke them. Instead gently blow on it from a distance.
When spending time outdoors, avoid excessive use of fragrances, which can attract stinging insects. If you have an allergic reaction to an insect sting, seek medical attention immediately.
To prevent bedbug infestations, consumers need to be vigilant in assessing their surroundings. When returning from a trip, check your luggage and clothing. Adult bed bugs can live for several months without eating, making them especially hard to control. Once inside a hotel or home, bed bugs spread rapidly from room to room - through pipes, in vacuum cleaners, on clothing and luggage. If you think you may have a bed bug infestation, contact a pest control professional. This is not a pest that can be controlled with do-it-yourself measures
Depending on where you live, termite swarms may be visible in the early spring. Termites are often confused with flying ants. Telltale signs of termite infestation include soft wood in the home, mud tubes on the exterior of your home (often near the foundation) and darkening or blistering of wood structures.
Contrary to popular belief, they do not come from the interior of the decaying fruit and are not spontaneously “born” from the rottenness of fruit. Rather, they detect the yeast produced by fermenting fruit from great distances. Once they have identified an intended target, they have little trouble getting to it as their tiny size allows them to enter a home through miniscule cracks and crevices. Even most window screens won’t deter them.
If you keep fresh fruit on the counter, check it often for signs of over-ripening or decay. Over-ripe fruit should be disposed of in a sealed trash can, outdoors. A female fruit fly lays an average of 500 eggs on the surface of fermenting fruit. You don’t want those eggs hatching in your kitchen trash can.
Make sure all holes of larger diameter than a pencil are sealed. Mice can squeeze through spaces as small as a dime. For proper rodent pest control, seal any cracks and voids. Ask about our inspection and seal program – we will seal holes that are 4 inches and smaller to help prevent rodent entry.
Immediately wipe up any crumbs or spills from countertops, tables, floors and shelves.
Store food in airtight containers and dispose of garbage regularly in sealed receptacles.
Only purchase food in sealed packages that show no sign of damage.
Add a bay leaf to canisters and packages of dry goods like flour, rice and other grains- their pungent scent repels many pantry pests.
Install door sweeps on exterior doors and repair damaged screens.
Check expiration dates on baking ingredients before use.
Eliminate all moisture sites, including leaking pipes and clogged drains.
If you suspect a pest infestation in your home, contact a licensed pest professional to inspect, identify and treat the problem.