Five Property Management Pest Control Problems and Solutions

Pests can have a negative impact on your tenants’ lives as well as your property’s value. Zap Pest Control Inc. can help you with pest control if your property is infested.

1) Who Should Take Care Of Pest Control?

Property managers of any type of rental property know that they are responsible for their tenants’ health and safety. This responsibility could include pest prevention and elimination.

Most states and some municipalities have laws that determine who is responsible for pest control in a rental property. As a property manager, it is important to know your rights as well as those of your tenants. We at Zap Pest Control Inc. strive to ensure that all commercial properties comply with all state and local laws in all areas we serve.

2) How can you prevent pests from entering your property?

These are some tips to help keep pests from invading your commercial property. You can, for example: Make sure that your tenants properly dispose of their garbage–make sure they are actually placing the bags in the trash container. Make sure crawl spaces and basements are well ventilated. You should seal all cracks and crevices on your property.

Also, make sure to inspect for utility points. Make sure your property has proper drainage. High-traffic areas, such as areas where crumbs can build up, should be cleaned daily. Weather stripping, as well as loose mortar, should be replaced around the doors, windows, and, foundation of your building. Are you still experiencing pests? Contact Zap Pest Control Inc. and speak with one of our friendly exterminators to learn how we can make your property pest-free.

3) What are the most common pest problems in commercial properties?

There are many pests that can infest commercial properties. They vary depending on the type of facility and state. There are a few common pests that can infest your property.

Ants: They can invade any property. They come to a building looking for food, shelter, and water. They are social insects and can live in colonies numbering in the thousands. If one ant is spotted that could indicate more.

Cockroaches: These pests can be a problem for condos and apartment complexes as well as commercial properties. Most often, they enter your property via cardboard boxes. Online shopping has made it easier for many boxes to enter your home. Cockroaches can spread 33 types of bacteria, including Salmonella or E.coli. It is crucial to eradicating them. Cockroaches can trigger allergic reactions, and worsen asthma symptoms.

Bed Bugs: In recent years, bed bugs have been a common pest in multi-family homes. Property managers and landlords should not attempt to remove bed bugs by themselves. It is best to hire pest control in Myrtle Beach.

4) How can pests enter my property?

Pests can enter your property from many points. You might also have access to nearby properties. If the neighboring property has a pest problem it could become your pest problem. In pipes and ductwork in winter, pests can easily find shelter in pipes. Tenants can help keep pests away by creating guidelines that are flexible for them.

5) When should I call pest control?

Property managers and landlords need to be able to recognize when it is time to call pest control. It is crucial to have a good relationship with a commercial pest control company in order to keep your property pest-free. Zap Pest Control Inc. offers comprehensive pest management solutions.

We offer pest control services in the following areas:

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need the help of an exterminator in getting rid of pests from your rental property.

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

Pest Control: Businesses Should Follow Food Safety Guidelines

Pests can cause food contamination and damage at your food establishment. This could result in your business losing its reputation and possibly costing you money if it is discovered during an inspection or after a complaint. That’s why pest control is essential especially if you’re running a food business.

It is your responsibility as a food business owner to make sure that you have the right arrangements in place to prevent pests from entering.

These are the three most common pests found in food businesses:

  • Rodents are rats and mice.
  • Insects include cockroaches, beetles, ants, flies
  • Birds – pigeons etc

Pest Control Tips For Food Businesses

Businesses must ensure that their food facilities are designed, constructed, and sized in accordance with the law. This includes protection from pests and other sources of contamination.

It is also required that proper procedures are in place to control pests. As the owner of the food business, you are ultimately responsible for any pest problems. You should not lay baits or poisons. Commercially available baits can cause food contamination and are not recommended for food businesses. However, you can and should inspect the premises for signs that pests might be present.

Even if your pet is well-trained, domestic animals can be considered pests in food businesses. They should not be allowed to enter food areas.

It is crucial to recognize signs of pest infestations early if you suspect you may have one. Regular monitoring of your premises is necessary to identify signs of pests. Experts in pest control in Myrtle Beach recommend the following steps when pests are found.

  • You should close the business until all pests are effectively eliminated from food storage, preparation, and service areas.
  • Hire a qualified residential pest control company to inspect the premises and to carry out any treatment necessary to eliminate the infestation. If you don’t have one, you need to call your pest control company or create one.
  • For further assistance and to report the issue, please contact Zap Pest Control Inc. If there are any concerns about adjacent properties, we will investigate them and address them. Completed the above steps and the risk to your health will be eliminated.
  • All surfaces and equipment that have been affected by pests should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Pest contamination can lead to disease so it is important to take care when cleaning. You should wear gloves.
  • Remove all rodent droppings, and cockroach eggs from the premises.
  • All food should be kept off the ground in sealed containers, which are safe from pests.
  • You can seal any holes that could allow rodents to enter your home with a hard, gnaw-resistant material.
  • You can seal all cracks under doors and install pest screens on doors and windows that are left open.
  • All crevices where cockroaches may be found should be filled.
  • Leakage should be fixed, and the toilet must be covered.
  • Get rid of any food that has been contaminated with rats, mice, or cockroaches.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need the help of an expert in getting rid of pests from your commercial building.

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

Questions You Need To Ask Before Hiring A Pest Control Company and Exterminator

Pest control is often something homeowners neglect to consider until they notice signs of rodents or insects. Pests can cause damage to your property and spread disease, making this a very stressful time. If you are looking for pest control companies in Myrtle Beach, you shouldn’t rush to hire the first one you find.

Instead, talk to several pest control companies. Before you hire an exterminator, be sure to ask the right questions. It is worthwhile to hire a pest control company that will do the job correctly and stand behind it.

Questions to ask any exterminator you are considering hiring. Let’s get started!

What length of time have you been in the business?

You’ll get the following benefits if you choose to work with a local pest control company:

  • The exterminators have local pest control experience and knowledge.
  • Trust that they will be there in the future, and that they will stand behind the work they do

Are there any online reviews or testimonials that you can provide?

A pest control company that can’t prove their reliability and trustworthiness is a red flag. We at Zap Pest Control, Inc. can help you.

Are you able to verify that your exterminators are licensed, bonded and insured?

This question should not be answered by an exterminator, pest control company, or other person. You should move in the opposite direction.

We are licensed, bonded and insured. Our technicians and exterminators will be happy to give you copies of the certifications when they visit your home. Ask!

How can you choose the right pest control company?

This is where things get complicated. You are not a pest control expert nor an exterminator as a homeowner. How can you tell which exterminator is legitimate? Ask questions such as:

  • Which pests might be in my house? Is it common for them to be found in this area?
  • Which stage of life do the insects live in? Egg, larvapupae, or adult?
  • How severe is the infestation?
  • What time have the pests lived in my house?
  • What is the time it will take to eradicate the infestation?
  • Are the pests coming back?
  • How often should an exterminator visit my home?

Note the information you get and research online. Listen to your gut instincts and follow your intuition. It’s possible for something that sounds too good to be true. Are the answers of multiple pest control companies similar? Are you able to trust the person with whom you are speaking?

Are you able to provide a written quotation and stand behind it?

Estimates can be misleading. They can change over time, and unscrupulous businesses may use low estimates in order to gain new business. They then find ways to add hidden fees. These pest control companies have poor online reviews.

Are pest control products safe for pets and people?

The most modern eco-friendly pest control methods are safe for pets and humans.

Ask questions if you have exotic pets such as birds and snakes. Pest control treatments can have a negative impact on the biology and metabolism of nonmammal pets.

A reliable pest control in Myrtle Beach must be able to explain the safety of their treatments. You will also be informed if you need to leave your house during treatment.

Are you able to get rid of the pests and keep them away from returning?

This is our opinion. Many pest control companies make mistakes on this question. It’s not enough just to get rid of pests and insects. All pest and insect infestations must be eliminated and preventive measures to keep pests away

We’d love to speak with you if you are looking for a pest control company that can help protect your home and family. Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now.

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

Pest Control Tips: How To Get Rid Of Cockroaches

There are only a few things that are more frustrating and infuriating than a cockroach infestation. These pesky critters will make themselves comfortable in your living area, bathroom, kitchen, and other spots in your home. The problem is that they multiply rapidly, which makes matters worse. In case you are tired of sharing your home with these pests, then you should know some pest control tips to get rid of cockroaches.

Pest Control Tips: Types of Cockroaches

German cockroaches and American cockroaches are the most common species of cockroaches present here in Myrtle Beach. German cockroaches are dark brown and they are about ½” to 5/8 in size. On the other hand, American cockroaches are much darker and also bigger at around 1-1/2” to 2”. Both kinds of cockroaches are active all year round, but they almost always come out at night to look for food and water. Cockroaches are considered nocturnal creatures and that is why they mostly spend their days tucked away in the dark and hidden parts of your house.

How Cockroaches Enter Your House

A few things that attract cockroaches to your house include garbage, dirty dishes in the sink, crumbs on the counters or floor, leftover food, and excess moisture. These pests enter your house for different reasons but attraction is just the first part. They still need to get into your house to wreak havoc. So how do they get in? Simple. They get in through cracks and crevices, holes in the pipes and vents, hitching a ride through boxes or other times, and more.

Pest Control Tips To Get Rid Of Cockroaches

Clean your house – this may seem obvious but cockroaches like dirt and filth. So the easiest way to make sure that cockroaches are kept out of your home is by making sure that it is kept clean. Don’t forget to wash the dishes and clean the spills and crumbs right away. You must take the garbage before you go to bed and get rid of grease from your stovetop. Be sure to seal food in containers and mop regularly.

Store-bought traps – Aside from hiring professional pest control in Myrtle Beach, an effective way of getting rid of cockroaches is the kind of trap found in home improvement stores and supermarkets. The device will use bait or scent to attract the cockroaches. When they come out to check, the roaches will be caught in a very sticky substance, trapping them inside. You may have to wait up to two weeks to see results so make sure that you check it periodically.

Store-bought baits – another cockroach treatment is to get rid of cockroaches is to use store-bought baits. Chemical baits conceal insecticide as a source of food. Roaches ingest the insecticide and they die once they return to their nest. When other roaches eat them, they also will also get poisoned and die. Be sure to add the chemical baits close to garbage cans and blow the sinks as well as cabinets in bathrooms and kitchens.

Liquid Concentrates – are made to deter cockroaches. When diluted, the liquid could be sprayed into crevices and cracks as well as other places where these pests like to hide.

Boric acid – is considered one of the most effective home remedies for cockroaches and is ideal for all those who would like to go for a DIY approach.

Call a residential pest control company – cockroaches are known to be very persistent. Sometimes, even if you follow these DIY tips, you may still wind up having these infestations. If it seems like nothing is working, call a pest control company right away.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. if you are having problems with a cockroach infestation.

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

Three Reasons Pest Control is Important in Summertime

Your business should look and run its best during the summer. Pests can be a problem for many businesses and they can cause problems in many ways. Businesses can benefit from performing pest control during this time.

Summer Pest Control

  1. Warm temperatures are a favorite environment for many pests

Many pests become more active in summer because of the warmer temperatures. Pest activity is more common in summer because of the possibility that new plant life will grow due to increased rainfall.

Although plants can look great in your business, they can also help provide the nutrients that pests and insects need. Your landscape can look tired and unmaintained if pests are allowed to eat a wide variety of grasses and leaves.

Pest control can be done in the summer to help keep your plants healthy.

  1. Summer is a time when the population of pests and rodents increases

Many people believe that rodents only enter buildings in winter to find warmth and shelter. But rodents and other pests could also enter buildings during the summer.

An infestation of insects in your home can be a food source for rodents during the summer. Rodents living in buildings during summer can pose a problem because they breed in the warmer months. This can lead to a rapid increase in the number of rodents in the building. It is often best to do pest control in summer to reduce the population.

  1. Early maintenance prevents damage

Although you may think that pest control in Myrtle Beach is unnecessary unless your business is experiencing an immediate problem with pests, it can lead to costly and time-consuming remediation. You can prevent pest problems from ever happening by performing pest control prior to your business starts fighting them.

Routine pest control can also help you spot problems before they cause more damage to your property. Zap Pest Control Inc. will help you prevent pest problems from developing. This can protect your business’s interior and exterior.

Because of the warm weather and easy access to food, pests are more likely to appear in summer. This can have a devastating effect on your business. Pest control can be a good way to maintain a healthy landscape, keep pests under control, and protect your business from any potential damage. Zap Pest Control Inc. will help you ensure that your business is pest-free.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need help in getting rid of pests from your property.

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

Pest Control in Condo Associations and HOAs: What You Need to Know For Spring

Pests are a problem that many condo owners have to deal with, regardless of whether they belong to homeowner associations. The community trusts the board to handle the pest problem in homeowner associations. Therefore, the board members need to find the best pest control solutions and communicate with the members in order to prevent the pest problem from becoming a serious threat. What is the best way to manage this problem? These are some possible solutions.

Use Spring for Seasonal Pest Control

The pests enjoy favorable weather conditions at the beginning of spring. They will mate easily, move to new areas and increase their activity. It is important to intervene early in the season to address the problem before it becomes a serious one.

These are some residential pest control tips for this season.

Take care of food and waste: Pests love areas that have food and dirty surfaces. It is a good idea to empty your dustbins and clean up after meals.

Be aware of the Pests You Should Expect: It is important to remember that termites, rats and ants will begin reproducing in spring. The environment will also be conducive to the multiplication and growth of mosquitoes.

Check the Exterior and Interior Walls. Pests look for openings or cracks in your walls to gain entry. You should ensure that exterior walls are free from cracks or other conditions that encourage pests such as damp interiors.

Spring pest control in Myrtle Beach is best done quickly, by checking for warning signs and maintaining the environment.

Who is responsible for pest control in community associations?

It can be confusing for condo owners to decide whether to handle the pest problem on their own or call the property manager. Pest control in HOA/Condo Associations falls under the individual’s responsibility.

However, pests can sometimes affect common areas. Owners of condos and homes should come to an agreement on how to manage the situation. The agreement gives the green light to meet the costs and other measures that need to be installed.

It is wise to have a clearly defined policy when managing the problem. A written policy improves speed, goodwill, and stops the problem from growing.

Safe Pest Control Methods–HOAs and Condo Associations

Pesticides have been shown to be a cause of cancer, climate change, and other air pollution that threatens human survival. This requires both individual and collective effort to preserve nature and the environment.

These are some examples of safe ways to deal with different pests.

Rodents: Rats live off leftovers, fruits and untrimmed bushes. Ensure you dispose of any leftovers in containers, trim your grass frequently, and get rid empty cans and wood that could be used to nest.

Bed Bugs: Condo Associations are plagued by bed bugs. Early intervention is the key to preventing bed bugs from spreading. Before you move in, inspect the condo and fix any cracks that may encourage them to spread.

Plants and herbs: Some plants or herbs have a natural smell that can irritate rodents and other pests. To deter pests, plant a few rosemary, garlic, cayenne or pyrethrum in your garden.

Are Residents and Owners Free to Choose Other Methods/Providers?

Yes. condo owners have the ability to monitor and evaluate any pest control product at their own discretion. This includes a review of both the method and service provider. This evaluation is intended to maximize costs and assess whether the service provider is serving its customers well.

Disclaimer: These laws may differ from one state to the next. If you have questions about pest control, it is important that you consult your attorney or licensed community professional.

We can help you manage the pest problem

Rodents, roaches and other insects can be a major problem for condo owners or homeowners. Zap Pest Control is a trusted company that offers the best service and saves homeowners as well as the board members. These problems can be solved by our support staff and management team within your budget.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. if you need help in getting rid of pests from your condo.

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

Seasonal Pest Control Tips For First Time Homeowners

Buying your first house is an exciting experience. You also have a long list of new tasks and responsibilities. Home security is a priority for most homeowners. However, keeping your home safe from potential intruders requires more than deadbolts or home alarms. No matter where you live, common pests are always looking for homes. Knowing when and how pests work will allow you to protect your most valuable investment and avoid seasonal pest problems. Here are some pest control tips you need to know.

Like all living creatures, pests seek shelter, food, water, and water. They don’t require a lot of openings. Common mice can fit through openings as small and narrow as a pencil’s diameter, while spiders and other insects can get in through cracks up to 1/16 inches. Ants are the most persistent and common household pests.

Residential Pest Control Tips

Pest-proofing your property year-round requires a thorough inspection inside and outside, followed by prompt treatment. The following should be on your basic residential pest control list:

  • Yard and garden debris can be used as hiding spots or homes for pests. Clear away leaves around your foundation and clean your gutters. Keep your garage and outbuildings clear of clutter.
  • Seal any cracks or larger openings in the foundation or siding joints. Clear caulk and other sealants can be used to block common entry points such as those around gas and water pipes, telephone lines, cable connections, and windows. Sealing reduces energy consumption, too.
  • Door thresholds and sweeps should be kept tight. Doors at corners are prime areas for pests.
  • To prevent pests and moisture from building up, keep wood landscape mulch away form your foundation. You can deter pests by using stone mulch or fresh cedar chippings.
  • Cut back any shrubs or tree branches that touch your home and trim overhanging limbs. Both are ready to be used by wildlife and insects.
  • Place gutter downspouts to direct rainwater away from your foundation. Moisten, low-lying areas are places where mosquitoes and pests can thrive.
  • To keep unwanted intruders out, cover any vent openings with wire mesh (also known as hardware cloth).

Pest activity is seasonal and has highs and lows. Spring and summer are the peak seasons, so be proactive. Indoor pest problems can be reduced by quickly dealing with them. Pests will seek out warm, dry places or food sources indoors in the event of prolonged drought, cold weather, or prolonged rain.

EARLY SPRING – FALL

Early pest activity is a sign that rodents are leading the charge. Gophers and moles are able to decimate lawns and leave them covered with tunnels and mounds from the start of the spring through summer and then autumn. Before warm weather comes, you need to act fast at the first sign of gopher or mole activity.

SPRING, THEN EARLY FALL

Fire ants could be dealt with in spring and fall. Fire ants are more active in spring when soil temperatures increase, and then they slow down as summer heat sets in. Once the temperatures drop to moderate levels in the fall, activity peaks. Be aware of the harm they do to lawns and the suffering that these stinging insects cause to wildlife, humans and pets if you live in a fire-ant country. Before fire ants pose a serious threat, act quickly.

SPRING THROUGH SUMMER

As spring becomes summer, ants and other outdoor pests become more active. Pest problems can be caused by warm weather, drought, and changes in your lifestyle, like barbecuing. Before you have problems, make sure your home is protected from ants and other insects.

LATE SPRING THROUGH SUMMER

Watch out for ant trails in your garden and new home as ant activity grows. Use powerful methods to combat ants indoors as well as outdoors. In-ground bait stakes can be used to target outdoor areas. Place bait stations in warm areas behind ovens, refrigerators, and other appliances that emit heat to outsmart indoor insects. Also, place them under sinks or where moisture or wastebaskets can draw ants in.

FALL CLEANUP

Clear away any leaves that may have fallen from your foundation or gutters before the cold weather arrives. Seal any cracks or holes and keep pests out of your home. If necessary, trim tree limbs or shrubs.

Protect your home and family by controlling pests during peak summer and spring seasons. Hire a professional pest control in Myrtle Beach to protect your investment and help you keep out common pests.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now. Our team of exterminators is always ready to help get rid of pests from your home.

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

Pest Control Tips To Prevent Cockroach Infestation

According to pest control experts, cockroaches are widespread all throughout South Carolina. And they are often called different names including American cockroach, Palmetto bugs and water bugs. They are often seen in many residential homes. In fact, they are considered as among the most common household pests that homeowners are battling on a daily basis. Aside from being a daily annoyance, these pests are known to spread filth, contaminating your food and causing various diseases.

How to get rid of cockroaches

There are many different ways to keep cockroaches away from your home. Primarily you need to keep your home clean, especially your kitchen and bathrooms. It is important that there are no scraps of food on the floor or leftovers on the countertops and tables at any time during the day or night. Keep in mind that this is what attracts cockroaches to your home.

In addition to these, here are other pest control tips to help you prevent cockroach infestation.

• Make sure the trash cans that you use both indoors and outdoors have tight fitting lids. Aside from leftover food in the kitchen, cockroaches are also attracted to food wastes in your trash can. Thus, it helps to keep them away if you use trash cans with lids. You should also inform everyone in the household to always keep your trash cans covered at all times.

• Place leftover food and opened bags of chips in airtight containers. In addition to keeping your food fresh, storing them in airtight containers seals their scent inside the containers, effectively hiding them from cockroaches looking for food. If the cockroach will not be able to smell food in your kitchen and pantry, they will not stay there for a long time. Make sure that when you open bags of spices or cans of sauces, you store what is left of them in airtight containers and jars.

• Keep the flooring, counters and shelves clean at all times. There should be no crumbs or spills of food anywhere in the kitchen or pantry, particularly in the shelves, countertops, cabinets, drawers and the floor. Keep in mind that cockroaches love to lurk in these areas. Thus, when a spill happens, you need to clean it at once. Make sure there are no traces of the spill that can attract cockroaches.

• Have your local plumber or handyman service your faucets and drains regularly. These should always be in tip top shape and are able to function effectively. Otherwise, you risk having clogged drains which will cause water to stand in your sink for long periods of time. Nothing calls the attention of cockroaches more than standing water in sinks, especially if the water came from washing your dishes and pots; thus, possibly having the presence and scent of food scraps.

• Avoid cluttering kitchen cabinets and drawers. Aside from food spills and crumbs, cockroaches also have cluttered and messy areas because this provides great and safe hiding places for them. To ensure they have nowhere to hide, keep your kitchen cabinets and drawers organized and tidy.

The very best way to keep cockroaches out of your home is regular pest control service. Schedule regular pest control service with Zap Pest Control and kiss the cockroaches goodbye.

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

Can Pest Infestations Affect Your Emotional Health?

Pest infestations can cause psychological and emotional damage as well as physical health problems. You can prevent pest infestations from occurring by knowing the potential damage that rodents or insects can cause to your home and your business. This will help protect your family and staff. You can also hire pest control experts to help you get rid of these pesky critters.

Pests can cause emotional damage to the entire family, regardless of whether there are older or younger children. Pests can cause damage to your business, including lawsuits, in commercial buildings such as hotels and one instance recently reported in a grocery store. Zap Pest Control Inc. can help you prevent this from happening to your business or home.

Psychological effects of pests

Infestation affects all five senses. Pests can be ugly and produce a foul-smelling stench that can change how you see the environment. There are two options: you could feel the bed bugs crawling on your skin or hear them scurrying about in the walls. You may have nightmares, flashbacks, or fear of entering a room with bugs. Consider the psychological and emotional consequences of pest infestations in your home or business.

1. Phobias

Phobia is a fear that causes disorientation or impairment and can be caused by an intense fear of an object, person or place. This psychological phenomenon causes a person to react negatively even if they are just thinking about a rodent or bug being there. If you experience any of these symptoms, then you probably have a phobia with pests.

Intense fear of the pest: This can make bed bugs, cockroaches, mice, or other insects seem dangerous or deadly. These pests can cause illness or threaten your property. This is your body’s way of protecting itself. The fear can be so intense that it can become unbearable. You might think of the rodent or insect as the end of the world.

Anxiety that is uncontrollable: Panic attacks can occur when the thought or sight of a pest triggers your thoughts. Panic attacks can cause nausea, vomiting, racing heart, trembling and difficulty breathing. You don’t think rationally when you confront the object of fear.

These are just a few of the phobias that you might have due to pest infestations.

  • Katsaridaphobia is a fear of cockroaches.
  • Arachnophobia is a fear of spiders.
  • Entomophobia is a fear of all insects that can be extreme and irrational.
  • Musophobia: You might be afraid of rats and mice.
  • Apiphobia is a term that describes someone who has a fear of bees.
  • Myrmecophobia is an extreme fear of ants that can be characterized as myrmecophobia.

The fear is unfounded. It is best to learn about the pests and their benefits. Some insects, such as bees, spiders and ants can help to improve the ecosystem and even eat pests like mosquitoes. You can also learn to prevent anthills and beehives, create safe areas in your home, or call an exterminator for help.

2. Delusional Parasitosis (DP)

It’s possible for you to feel a crawling sensation when you come across a disgusting insect. In extreme cases, the feeling could become so bad that it can affect your psychological or emotional health. This disorder is not something you may be aware of. People won’t always talk about the condition, so it is possible to feel shame or guilt.

These symptoms may be present if you have had a pest infestation.

  • Invisible bugs: People who have DP believe they have an infestation. You might feel a crawling sensation, hallucinations or itchiness.
  • Self-harm: People suffering from DP will do anything to get rid of the tiny insects and bugs that are on their skin. To relieve itching, they might use tweezers or other products to get rid of them. They end up doing more damage than good.
  • Pesticide use excessively: People with DP may use too many chemicals or pesticides to get rid of the pests. Pest control companies in Myrtle Beach only use safe amounts of chemicals to eliminate the pests. However, excessive pesticide use can cause harm to your environment and yourself.

3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disease (OCD).

OCD symptoms can also develop in those who have experienced a pest infestation. The condition causes intrusive thoughts, images and urges to enter a person’s head, mostly around seeing or hearing the pest. These thoughts can be eliminated by engaging in repetitive or compulsive mental activities, such as cleaning their environment or taking care of their own needs.

These symptoms may be seen in people who are anxious about pests.

Obsessive house cleaning is when a person with OCD has a strong desire to clean their home repeatedly. They might sweep the floor, clean the table, or wash their hands many times before they feel their home or body are clean enough. OCD people might be too obsessed to clean after a pest infestation.

OCD can lead to contamination obsessions. OCD sufferers could be extremely anxious about the possibility of coming in contact with dirt, germs, sticky residue, or dust. They may develop washing or cleaning compulsions, such as excessive toilet wiping, brushing teeth, and showering. They will also feel that their clothes are always dirty and feel the need for laundry more often than they should.

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A severe distressing event can trigger PTSD, which is an extreme anxiety disorder. This disorder usually occurs after a traumatic event that is repeated or prolonged. Symptoms may not appear until many years later. People can develop PTSD from being bitten by bees, swarmed or bitten by wasps or suffering damage from rodents such as bed bugs, cockroaches, or spiders.

People with PTSD are triggered by their trauma. They may relive the negative experience if they come across a photograph or a healthy amount of insects in a safe area or return to the spot where they were attacked. These are the symptoms of PTSD that can be caused by engaging with a pest.

Nagging memories: The memory of a traumatizing event such as seeing or feeling large numbers of rodents or insects in your home will stay with you. Unwanted, repetitive, and distressing memories of the event and your feelings during it will be present. These memories can manifest in nightmares or flashbacks and cause you to replay the traumatizing experience as if it had happened again. Sometimes, you might experience emotional distress such as anger, humiliation or depression when someone reminds you of what happened.

Avoidance: You can avoid reliving the event by developing habits of avoidance. This means that you will not talk about or think about it again. Avoidance: You may avoid certain people, places, or activities that are reminiscent of the event.

Negative thoughts and emotions: Your traumatic experience could have triggered feelings like death or hopelessness. You may also develop negative thoughts about yourself, the world and other people. Memory problems could result, such as forgetting important details about the trauma. You may find it difficult to maintain close relationships and lose interest in activities that you once enjoyed.

Changes in your emotional and physical reactions to pest infestations: Things that used to make you happy will no longer have the same effect if they are traumatic. You might become more startled or scared quickly, and you should be alert in case of danger. You might resort to self-destructive behaviors like alcohol or drug abuse to numb the pain. You might also experience difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or have aggressive or irritability.

5. Psychological Intervention

Psychological interventions are steps that you can take to relieve distress by working with professionals. Contact a professional therapist if you have any of these symptoms. You can also contact pest control services to put your mind at rest. A trained exterminator in Myrtle Beach will be able to treat or prevent future infestations.

Watch for our next post – The most emotionally damaging pests

You can avoid pest infestations by hiring a pest control company such as Zap Pest Control, Inc.

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

How To Prepare For Pest Control Service

You cannot just call a pest control company and then do nothing to prepare your home before they arrive. Effective pest control requires a partnership between professional pest control operators (PCOs), and homeowners, where both take action to eliminate the pests.

Although the amount of preparation required by the homeowner is quite standard, most PCOs will give you a list detailing the steps that must be taken before they visit. Many PCOs won’t treat areas not prepared for treatment because they could be unsafe or reinfest the entire house or building.

Preparation Tips Before Pest Control Treatment

Getting Rid Of Cockroaches

There are many ways to prepare for cockroach removal. Experts use gel bait insecticides these days to eliminate as well as control cockroaches. The gel bait is placed in areas where the cockroaches are likely to live, breed, or travel. For long-term success, it is important to clean your home before a pest control visit. This will make the bait more appealing by removing food sources.

Before any service is performed, it is important to inform the PCO if anyone is experiencing special allergies, or if a house member is pregnant or under the age of one. The PCO will specify that pets and people should not be allowed to enter the service area.

Flea Control Service

Fleas can be spread to pets from the outside, or from other pets. You can purchase flea control products to use at home or hire a pest control company to treat your yard and pets. Here are a few preparation tips before you begin the extermination of fleas.

  • Use hot water for the beddings of your pets.
  • Vacuum the carpet, and mop hard surface floors, including walls and in closets.
  • Vacuuming furniture is a good idea, especially under and between cushions.

Ant Control Service

Pest control specialists often use gel bait insecticides for ant infestations, similar to cockroach control services. You will need to place tiny portions of the gel bait in areas where you see ants trailing or feeding. You can place the bait on small pieces of cardboard, a holder or inside an ant station. You will need to clean up any spillages, vacuum thoroughly, and store your food in an ant-proof container or the fridge.

Rodent Control Service

A single mouse or rat can indicate that an entire family is living in your home. While there are many ways to eliminate mice and rats from your home, it is possible to hire an exterminator at times.

For the best results, repair any holes along walls and baseboards. Seal the doors properly to make sure that the treatment would last. Clear off the top portion of your refrigerator and the cabinet under the sink for easier access.

Bed Bug Service

Bed bugs are a serious problem and can be difficult to eradicate. A professional treatment service is usually required to eliminate bed bugs completely. The homeowner or resident is crucial in the success and safety of a bedbug treatment program. Preparing for service calls:

  • All bedding (sheets and covers, dust ruffles etc.) must be removed. All bedrooms should be cleared of all bedding, including sheets, covers and dust ruffles.
  • All bed linens should be washed in hot water. You should not change the bed linens until at least four hours following treatment or as directed by the PCO.
  • All personal belongings, including clothing, shoes, and stored materials, must be removed from furniture and floors throughout the house.

Termite Service

Although homeowners can learn about termites and help them identify problems, professionals for pest control in Myrtle Beach are recommended for termite control. Professionals have the expertise and equipment necessary to eliminate termites. It’s because of the different termite species as well as the unique methods needed to control them. Subterranean termites nest close to or below the ground, while colonies of dry wood termites can be found above ground.

PCOs suggest that homeowners should prepare for the pest control service by moving any appliances, furniture, or any stored items from their interior walls at least three feet away (wherever possible) from the spots the technician has designated as being in need of treatment. Don’t forget to cover your closets.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need the help of experts in getting rid of pests from your home.

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