Unwelcome Guests, Part 2
UNWELCOME GUESTS
Part Two: Insects & Insecticides
The safest and easiest way to keep unwanted insects out of your
home is to maintain your window and door screens, your window
and door seals, and to fill other openings with caulking.
Insects are attracted by food and water. Clean floors and
cabinets thoroughly, and also around pipes, plumbing fixtures
and garbage cans. Store your food in tightly-closed containers,
and launder clothing before putting it away for extended periods.
If you do find some bugs in the house, you can kill them with a
surface or space spray, or a powdered insecticide. Some
insecticides offer residual effects, and are useful in breeding
and feeding areas.
Read insecticide instructions carefully, and avoid contact with
food or kitchen utensils and appliances. Do not smoke while
applying insecticides and wash your hands and face throroughly
afterwards. Avoid open flames, and do not touch treated surfaces
until they are dry. Keep insect sprays away from children, pets
and elderly, ill or pregnant persons. If anyone gets insecticide
in their eyes, nose or mouth, call a poison control centre or
9-1-1 right away.
Check the label for an antidote before using any insecticide
product.
For extensive or serious infestations, consider hiring a
licensed, professional pest control company or individual. Names
and numbers can be found in the Yellow Pages under the Pest
Control Services category.