RIDDING YOUR HOME OF COCKROACHES & FIRE ANTS AFTER RAIN
Generally, rain is welcomed for many different reasons but can also become a hazard when flooding occurs, causing damage and danger. The behavior of insects is also affected by the rain because they thrive in humid environments. Summer rainfall is the perfect time for boosting insects and their activity to multiply and survive longer. Creating a reliable water source allows the pests to wreak havoc by leaps and bounds. You may have noticed increased activity after rainfall during the summer months.
American and Brown-Banded cockroaches have invaded homes during the recent rains experienced. Cockroaches prefer warm and dry to seek shelter indoors. American cockroaches are often found in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. The other species, the Brown-Banded cockroach, will be found gathered on ceilings, in attics, or around appliances where they find warmth. Cockroaches usually roam at night searching for food but can be seen during the day. Cockroaches have been known to carry and spread harmful bacteria and protozoa, which will cause gastroenteritis and diarrhea, which poses a threat to humans. When found indoors, they can also trigger allergies and asthma.
Mosquitos become a problem after heavy flooding. Rain always increases mosquito populations, which becomes a dangerous situation as they carry and spread disease. It is well known that mosquitos infect humans with yellow fever, malaria, and other fatal diseases. Mosquitos can multiply in the millions during these heavy rainfalls and flooding, wreaking havoc on those who are in their path. Carefully remove any standing water sources, including flower pots, old tires, or anything that can hold standing water.
During extreme rainfall and flooding, the fire ant is another insect that will survive. If you’ve ever been bit by a fire ant, you know it packs quite the punch and can be painful with its stings. Fire ants are clever and cling together to form a raft that floats on the surface of the water. The first object they encounter, fire ants, will climb onto that, like a tree, and be saved from drowning. With a team effort, the fire ant is quite resilient, and the heavy rainfall is just a simple obstacle.
Lots of problems will arise when living in an area with major rainfall and heavy flooding. Insects are one of them. Call Zip Zap Termite & Pest Control at 816-407-PEST (7378), so we can keep their increased presence at bay. Zip Zap will exterminate the cockroaches that have gained access to your home and keep the fire ants under control.
