4 key components that can be implemented to help effectively control cockroaches

Alea Pedroza, PCA

Envu

Cockroaches continue to be one of the most impactful pests in households and commercial establishments. Not only are they a nuisance pest, but cockroaches also are known to carry disease pathogens, such as Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Bacillus and others. Allergic reactions and asthma symptoms can occur under heavy cockroach infestations as well.

German cockroaches are commonly associated with poor sanitation practices, especially in residential and commercial food-handling areas. Additional species, such as Turkestan, Oriental and American (Periplaneta americana) cockroaches, are commonly found in sewers, electrical and irrigation boxes, mulch beds, wood piles, crawlspaces, basements and garages, as well as in and around trash.

Despite their prevalence, cockroaches usually can be effectively controlled by focusing on four key components:

1. Inspection. Look for conditions that favor cockroach activity indoors, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Egg cases (ootheca) and fecal matter are evidence of a cockroach infestation. Sticky trap monitors can help identify harborage areas when populations are low. Around perimeters, locate potential access points into the structure, including pipes, screens and weatherstripping on doors and garages.
2. Sanitation. Cleanliness is a fundamental practice when trying to control cockroaches. Cleaning up spills and eliminating food and trash food sources lend to more effective application of insecticide treatments.
3. Treatment. Vacuuming with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter significantly reduces large numbers of cockroach nymphs and adults indoors. Following up with appropriately labeled residual insecticides, baits and dusts can substantially reduce and even eliminate cockroach infestations. Barrier treatments with residual insecticides can prevent cockroaches from coming indoors.
4. Communication. Communicating with customers about cockroach behavior and control expectations is a must. This will help build trust and encourage collaboration.