The Rentokil family of pest control companies, (Ehrlich Pest Control, Western Exterminator, and Presto-X Pest Control), understand the importance of preventing a cockroach infestation in the home, as they are considered one of the most important pests to human health. According to The National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH), cockroaches in the home environment are a health hazard not only because of the risks posed by cockroach antigens to asthma sufferers, especially asthmatic children and the elderly, but also because they can carry diseases like Salmonella by picking up germs on the spines of their legs. Additionally, many of the methods traditionally used to eliminate cockroaches can carry their own health risk.
“The threat of a cockroach infestation is ever-present when food, water and shelter are readily available,” said Chad Gore, Ph.D., BCE, training manager/entomologist for Rentokil-North America. “The ultimate goal in eliminating the health risk that cockroaches bring is to keep cockroaches out of the home. If you do have an infestation, the first step is to identify the type of species present and then develop a safe and effective control program to eliminate them.”
Rentokil offers the following practical steps everyone can take to prevent access:
Eliminate food sources—store dry foods in tightly sealed containers or in sealed plastic bags and do not leave food sitting out on counters. Do not leave liquids in sinks or buckets.
Clear all waste food and liquid spillage—clean up food debris from food preparation areas, under sinks and around appliances. Empty the rubbish on a daily basis and keep all garbage or compost in sealed bins.
Remove pet food—including drink and litter trays before nightfall.
Rinse cans, bottles and plastics—before putting them in recycling bins.
De-clutter—remove old stacks of newspapers and magazines, unused cardboard boxes and all other forms of clutter from the floor or bottom of cupboards. Cockroaches release an aggregation pheromone in their droppings telling others they have found safe harborage.
Varnish or paint wood shelves—to seal them, and wipe them clean regularly.
Professional treatment is often the most effective way to get rid of cockroaches in a home or business. Specialist services can guarantee a long-term solution and reduce the risk of a re-infestation through professional and safe prevention methods.
About Rentokil North America
Rentokil North America is part of Rentokil Initial plc, one of the world’s largest and most diverse business service companies, operating in more than 60 countries. Ehrlich Pest Control, Western Exterminator, and Presto-X Pest Control are part of the Rentokil family of pest control companies in North America. They provide commercial and residential pest control, bioremediation, bird control, vegetation management, deer repellent services, wild-animal trapping and termite control.
