American cockroaches are a major problem in Tupelo. If you see one of these pests in your house, it is essential to take action before the cockroach infestation grows larger and presents a serious risk.
Understanding American Cockroaches
The American cockroach is the biggest of home-invading cockroaches, often growing to over two inches in length. They are sometimes called water bugs and are reddish-brown with a yellow figure-8 pattern on the back of their heads. Despite their name, American cockroaches are not actually from America – they are native to Africa and the Middle East and thought to have spread worldwide by way of ships in the 17th century.
Seeing American cockroaches is bad news for your Tupelo home or business because this pest brings a serious risk of disease with it. American cockroaches regularly walk through sewers, dumpsters, and other unsavory areas before making their way onto your property. As such, they can bring with them a threat of illnesses such as E. coli and salmonella, parasitic worms, and food-borne illnesses due to food contamination.
Additionally, American cockroach saliva, urine, and droppings contain proteins that can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks in certain individuals, making them especially dangerous to host in your home or business.
And don’t forget that the negative consequences of a customer sighting a cockroach in your business can seriously damage your reputation.
Preventing American Cockroaches
There are a few prevention tips for American cockroaches that you can undertake to deter this pest from entering your Tupelo home or business. Keep in mind that the best way to defend yourself against this pest is to remove all factors that attract them, such as trash, clutter, and moisture.
- Inspect your home for potential entry points and seal them up; this includes double-checking window and door screens and areas around your foundation and replacing damaged weatherstripping.
- Identify moisture issues inside and outside your house and fix any leaks. American cockroaches are especially attracted to moisture, so eliminating these areas will help deter these pests from entering your property. You should also ensure that you have proper ventilation throughout your home.
- Seal up food waste and trash properly and dispose of them as soon as possible. The aroma of food and trash is a major factor in bringing all kinds of pests, especially American cockroaches, into your home. Also, be sure to clean up food and liquid spills as soon as possible and refrain from leaving dirty dishes out.
- Clean your home regularly and empty cardboard and plastic in storage areas, as these are favorite places for American cockroaches to hide. You should also vacuum on a routine basis and clear up other areas of clutter that may provide shelter for cockroaches.
Professional Cockroach Removal
American cockroaches can be difficult to fully remove, thanks to their skills at hiding in hard-to-reach areas and resistance to most over-the-counter pest sprays. Instead of wasting your time and money and risking your health with potentially toxic DIY methods, contact the professionals at McCary Pest Control at the first sign of American cockroaches. Our experts will be able to find the source of your infestation and provide you with effective, safe solutions that leave your home thankfully pest-free.