Roaches, the Unwanted Guest

Roaches are a common problem just about everywhere, even in homes that are kept very clean.  Their presence is is even more visible now that temperatures are on the rise.

Pest control experts like Essential Pest Control say there are four signs of a cockroach infestation:

• Seeing the fast-moving insects scurrying toward dark areas

• Seeing droppings that are often mistaken for mouse droppings

• Finding dark-colored egg capsules about 8 mm long “glued” near food sources in kitchens, basements or laundry rooms

• Presence of a “musty” smell, often noticed by people with sensitive noses.

Cockroaches can adversely affect human health, contaminating food and potentially transmitting disease organisms on their body parts. Excrement and cast-off skins can also cause allergic reactions in some people, resulting in runny noses, sneezing, eye irritation and skin reactions. Some children can even develop asthma-related symptoms.

Control methods vary for each type of roach. Baits and traps work better for some than others and professional pest control is typically the best way to control and/or eliminate these annoying critters. But people can take steps to reduce cockroaches and prevent infestations as much as possible.

Put food away! Clean spills, crumbs and dried residues from splatter or dirty dishes as soon as possible, including pet feeding areas. Roaches feed on these sources, as well as materials found on soiled clothing and diapers, and dead roaches.

• De-clutter to make cleaning and treatment easier. Clean inside cabinets, as well as under and behind appliances and furniture.

• Store food, pet food, garbage and other food sources in bug-proof containers.

Above all, maintain good sanitation habits.

Homeowners shouldn’t neglect taking care of a roach problem, worrying that a pest-control expert will consider them to have poor cleanliness habits. The experts know how difficult it is to prevent and control infestations.