When to throw in the towel!
Let’s face it, there are going to be situations that arise that you’re gonna need a Pro. A Pest Control Operator, or PCO as they’re often called in the industry. We all remember the term “exterminator” but nowadays they do a lot more than that! They can be essential in providing ways to prevent an infestation from starting, in controlling an existing problem, and in knowing what to do to keep it from re-occurring.
A PCO should be well versed in a wide variety of pests, their identification, biology and control. And what the pest is doing in your home to start with. They should be licensed as business operators and with licensed technicians that will do the actual service.
Health Canada, through the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA), and the various provincial Ministries of the Environment, are the key bodies regulating the Pest Control Industry. There are many Acts, laws and testing requirements that must be adhered to in order to treat your home.
These same laws regulate what you, as a Homeowner or apartment dweller, can legally buy and use. The trained and licensed PCO has tools and products that may be required to do the job right!
Some great examples:
Bees, Wasps and Hornets: Some nests or hives you won’t even notice, and some may not need treating at all, as they do pollinate some plants and feed on other insects. But when they are bothersome, they can be a major challenge for even the best PCO, under the right circumstances.
A Yellowjacket nest can be located under the eaves on higher floors requiring a ladder and unless you’re willing risk serious stings or even falling you might want to think twice.
If you’re anaphylactic then calling a Pro is a must! And don’t think when you hear a large amount of buzzing inside a wall that they will simply go away!
Termites: This is one insect pest that is always best to leave to a professional. The damaged wood may need treated or replaced. A treatment may be required by drilling through your basement floor. Most of the pesticides needed to control termites require a license to use, or legally purchase.
Bed Bugs: If you’re an apartment or condo dweller you should think about notifying the building super or property manager. Bed bugs are known to move along baseboards and shared utility conduits, wiring or ventilation systems. The infestation in your bedroom might originate from your neighbor, or from apartments above or below.
Carpenter Ants: If you first notice that these large black ants also have some members with wings it could be sign that the colony has been in existence for quite some time. Normally the first sign of reproductive ants with wings is not until the colony is well established, and ready to send out queens, males and drones to start new colonies.
But that normal time frame is 5 to 6 years after the colony is first established! Imagine the potential damage done to the structure of your house as the colony has been tunneling all that time. These tunnels can cause wood to lose their weight bearing capability, and replacement of part of structure may be required.
Raccoons, Squirrels and other Wildlife: If being on a ladder with wasps or bees is dangerous, think of the possibilities with a mother raccoon protecting her young in your attic!
With the real chance of getting bitten, or contracting rabies, the risk is too high for the average homeowner to tackle a wildlife problem. Squirrels build nests and carry fleas, and skunks…well we all know what a threat they are!
There are laws about moving animals at certain times, and how far they can be released from your property. Plus there may be babies involved, and no one wants to separate a mother from her young.
Rats: Mice aren’t normally as difficult in small populations, just a few, can be controlled in a manner of ways. But rats are another story and require special attention, and baiting may be the best option performed by a Pest Control Operator.
So whether you’re afraid of bugs or squeamish, or don’t think you know enough, or are just too plain busy, know that if you can’t Do-It-Yourself, there is always a licensed professional just around the corner.
Also Read:
How to Identify Carpenter Ants
