Pest Control Services Be Harmful to Humans
The pests that plague us — rodents and insects, weeds and plants, viruses, bacteria and other organisms — are not only a nuisance, but they also pose significant health hazards. Rodents and cockroaches can harbor serious diseases that cause disease in humans, such as salmonella or leptospirosis. Mosquitoes can carry mosquito-borne illnesses, such as malaria and West Nile Virus, bite people and animals, and sting them to leave painfully itchy lesions. Spiders, fleas and bed bugs itch and can cause sleep disturbances. These pests also contaminate food and water and damage structures. Pest control experts get rid of the pests that hurt people’s health and destroy property by using various means, including exclusion or quarantine, repulsion, physical removal and chemical controls.
The chemicals used in pest control are known as pesticides, which poison and kill the pests that come into contact with them. Only licensed and trained pest control professionals should use them. Pesticides can harm the environment, human beings and pets when misapplied or used improperly. They can also land in places where they aren’t supposed to and cause injury or illness. Foggers and bombs, which are used to treat large areas, can be especially dangerous, as they often contain illegal pesticides such as Chinese/Roach Chalk or Tres Pasitos that aren’t listed on the label.
Pest control includes any action taken to prevent or eliminate unwanted plants, animals or other organisms that interfere with desired crops and the environment. There are three types of pests: continuous pests, which are nearly always present and require regular control; sporadic or potential pests, which occur only under certain conditions and may need periodic control; and plant disease organisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi) that affect plants.
Can Pest Control Services Be Harmful to Humans Or Pets?
Depending on the pests and their location, different methods of controlling them are employed. Mechanical or physical controls, such as traps, barriers, fences and steam sterilization of soil, alter the environment to make it unsuitable for pests. Electricity, light, heat and refrigeration can also be used to control some pests.
The use of chemicals, particularly pesticides, is the most common method of pest control. While these can be effective, they are usually toxic to humans and pets. Pets are more likely to be affected by pesticides than adults, because they ingest them through their skin and mouth. They are also more sensitive to their odors.
To keep your pets safe during pest control services, remove their food bowls, toys and bedding from the treated area during the treatment. It’s also a good idea to cover reptile cages and fish tanks, as well as bird and small animal cages. This helps to reduce their exposure to vapors and sprays that may be airborne during the treatment. Pets should be kept in a crate during treatment to further decrease their exposure to harmful chemicals and pests. A crate also provides them with security and comfort during a stressful time. If you are concerned about the safety of your pets, talk to your local pest control company before treatment begins.