Professor Pest's 5 Things To Do When Bugs Invade

1. Assess The Situation: 

Sure, this sounds like an obvious one. But few people actually take a moment to consider what is actually going on and why it is happening. Rapid resolution to a pest invasion begins with a little bit of thought (not too much thought though...don't hurt yourself). Consider the following:

• In general terms, what kind of pest are you dealing with? Is it a roach? An ant? A spider? A mouse? (Tip: If you can't accomplish this, it might be time to call a professional). Knowing what you've got will be critical to determining which pest control products will work the best. 

• Where do they seem to be concentrated? Where are they coming from? Where are they headed to? Some insects, like ants, are either going to their source of food/water or back to their colony. There are 3 typically points to eliminate pests. Where they're at, where they're traveling, or where they'll be.

• When did you first start noticing these pests? Has this been going on for 17 years and you're just now mustering up the gumption to do something about it? Or did these things just pop up 2 hours ago and you're Suzie-On-The-Spot? Infestations that have been long-established are often best approached differently than newly introduced populations.

2. Identify The Specific Pest Species:

This is more critical in some instances than in others. There are lots of species and sub-species of insects, so narrowing it down to the lowest common denominator isn't always critical. But the more you know, the better chance you have at successful pest elimination. If you've got ants, termites, roaches, flies, wasps, bees, rodents, snakes, or ticks...definitely make sure you know the specific type you're dealing with. 

3. Look For (And Eliminate) Contributing Factors: 

Whichever pests you're dealing with are there for a reason. In short, they want to be there. Technically they don't want things the way you and I want things, but they are there because it is convenient for them to be there. So what you've got to figure out is why is it convenient for them to be there? 

While several factors may contribute to a pest invasion of one type or another, here are some of the most common ones to look for: 

• Leaks or other excessive moisture conditions, inside or outside;
• Poor storage practices, excessive clutter, or substandard sanitation;
• Excessive exterior foliage in proximity to or in direct contact with the structure;
• Inadequate seals around doors, windows, and utility penetrations;
• Food products improperly contained or disposed of;

In some instances, particularly where contributing factors or obvious and easily rectifiable, resolving a pest infestation is possible without the intervention of any pesticides whatsoever. Always consider non-chemical measures first.  

4. Research and Purchase Pest Control Products: 

At Pest Control Everything, we pride ourselves on the quality of the information we provide, and have access to information on a broad spectrum of pesticides and pest-related products. As an example, Professor Pest's Best Ant Control Products is an excellent resource for dealing with ant problems. Similar resources exist for all sorts of pests.  

5. Follow All Product Label Instructions: 

Any pest control product you choose will include a product label outlining specific application instructions, precautions, and limitations along with recommended Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to use while handling, mixing, or applying. The effectiveness of your treatments and the safety of those in the environment depend on strict adherence to all label requirements. 

Pest Control Everything is here to assist with guiding you through the pest control product selection process. Please email any questions to support@pestcontroleverything.com or use our Ask Professor Pest Live Chat option for real-time support. Our support is fast, easy, and FREE.