Setting the record straight on myths regarding pest control this summer

Many over-the-counter products promise a solution to pests by eliminating the symptoms of infestation, instead of focusing on the root of the problem. Since rodents and insects have been around from the beginning of man, many myths and old wives tales have been developed.

For instance, many homeowners tend to live under the notion that stronger poison produces better results. “This is often a waste of money and pesticide. It also poses a greater hazard to the user, their clients, their staff, and the environment,” says Rentokil specialist, Deena Govender.

Furthermore, many believe that pests are natural organisms, and should therefore not be killed. “The law recognises the dangers posed by some household pests, hence allows their destruction. Pests can carry many dangerous diseases that can adversely affect man and his pets. It is partly our vision to protect man and pets from any harmful organisms, and to maintain clean environments,” Govender comments.

However, living in a clean environment might not always be the answer. Insects like cockroaches live in all types of environments and are able to contaminate clean surfaces. Other pests can walk, fly or be brought into your living or working environment at any time. Therefore, Rentokil warns that surroundings that encourage insect infestation should be checked regularly. This could be done by developing a programme with a pest control company like Rentokil.

In anticipation to the summer season, Rentokil has refreshed and upgraded both their sales consultants and technicians on the Integrated Fly Management Program. The teams have been provided with a wealth of knowledge and advice to better educate customers and provide long-term solutions to their fly infestations. “The technicians utilise the principles of pest control as well as information on fly biology, including fly behaviour and life cycles,” says National Training and Technical Manager of Rentokil, Terry Ivison. “The techniques applied come with years of experience in the industry and also the constant refresher training that is done.”

This strategic approach to fly management includes all the basic principles of pest control and is broken into four steps: the exclusion phase concentrates on excluding the files from entering the premises and this is done by proper proofing, including curtains and screens, etc.; restriction focuses on depriving the fly population from basic needs like food, water and harbourage and this involves removing the breeding sites; the destruction step develops a treatment plan using various pesticides and mechanical traps, like units; and finally, the process is monitored through routine treatments executed at regular intervals to ensure the infestations do not return.

Even though nobody particularly chooses them, pests will be around as long as man is creating favourable surroundings for breeding. Rentokil aims to educate customers on the benefits of pest control, thereby assisting in a healthier environment for all. For more tips on pest control, please visit www.rentokil.co.za.