Being in the pest control field for over twenty years,I feel compelled to start writing about what you should know about it. I'll be writing in the near future about companies, tips, and what to... More

Being in the pest control field for over twenty years,I feel compelled to start writing about what you should know about it. I'll be writing in the near future about companies, tips, and what to look for in your service when calling upon a professional.There should be a pest management category for this. First,professional pest control technicians [pco's] are licensed and trained to effectively MANAGE pests. Regular inspection, monitoring,and exclusion is key to effective pest MANAGEMENT.For the MOST part consumers can trust a pest management professional [pmp]. They have the training and knowledge to identify pests,pinpoint the cause and determine an appropriate solution. Today they are Professional applicators-not poison pushers. PMP'S are trained routinely in integrated pest management [Ipm]. [see epinion on INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT] This means being well trained in the use of all solutions available to the pmp in solving any pest problem. Such as baits, traps, sanitation, exclusion,non- chemical means,etc,etc. A pmp should first inspect ,identify,and use the tools available to them to control the pest problem that a customer requests to be solved to avoid harm to the environment. Considerable efforts should be put towards preventing pest problems by controlling conditions which may attract or support pests. They should listen to what ever information you have for them and they should communicate with the customer on what they find and intend to do about it before doing anything. Then they should tell you what HAS been done and what you can expect from this service and what you might need to do to maintain this control.Communication is the utmost importance!! Many people choose to take on the task of pest control themselves. Some succeed, many fail and do more harm then good. Do they understand that treatment is more than randomly throwing down some bait and then hoping for the best? Do they understand the ants biology,habits,and eating habits?? Some ant baits don't work at certain times of the year as I commented at some of the ant products written here. Most "everyday" consumer doesn't understand the way to LONG LASTING CONTROL. Putting down some ant traps,putting down some mouse bait will usually not get you long lasting results. You need to find out why you have the problem in the first place ,get to the source, eliminate and exclude entries. Repair the moisture problems,trim the bushes,tree's and clear those gutters. If you are a homeowner, next time it rains, grab the umbrella and go for a stroll around the outside of the house and inspect. Is the rain running off the house properly? Does something need to be weatherproofed ? Eliminate pest harborages. PMP'S are professionals,experts in the MANAGEMENT OF PESTS. Their services are needed by the public. Their services have changed along with their methods. PMP'S and the customer need to be partners in understanding of the services to be rendered and what they can do together to get SAFE ,long lasting results. See to it you get a qualified pest control technician if you plan on hiring one.There are always a few fly-by-nighters,as there is in any field so choose carefully. Ask questions. Feel free to ask for his operators license. They are required to carry on person at all times.And if you feel comfortable enough to take on a pest problem yourself and you intend to purchase a chemical controlling product. Always read the label!!! All of it. I'll be writing more soon on products and home tips soon.-ginzo
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