A cockroach infestation requires immediate action by professionals to eliminate the problem and help minimize health risks associated with them. Cockroaches are attracted to food (especially rotting and decaying food matter). A cockroach will eat the same food you eat, along with paper products, packaging, fabrics, toothpaste and pet feces. It's easier to discover signs of a cockroach problem in your home or business than it is to actually see a live cockroach. Nocturnal creatures, cockroaches will hide out of your sight during the day becoming much more active at night.
Signs of a Cockroach Infestation
- Cockroach feces - a cockroach will leave a trail of black droppings.
- Cockroach smear - a cockroach will leave smear marks wherever they are active.
- Cockroach skin - A cockroach will shed skins 5-8 times as they mature to adults.
- Cockroach odor - A cockroach infestation will produces an unpleasant smell.
With multiple entry points, your home or commercial property could be a breeding ground for cockroaches.The easiest way to prevent cockroaches from entering your home or office is denying them access to food, water and shelter. German cockroaches favor kitchens but, may easily be prevented by keeping crumbs and other food particles from accumulating around countertops and cabinets. Regular cleaning with a general disinfectant helps deter cockroaches from nesting.
German cockroaches may be found in bathrooms and laundry rooms also as they seek out warmth and humidity. They are good climbers with the ability to move straight up glass.
Oriental cockroaches dwell in areas with cooler, damp conditions like basements and drains. Oriental roaches can survive outside in areas in and around dumpsters, landfills, as well as infest urban environments where water and food debris build up.
- Eliminate food sources - dry foods should be stored in sealed containers or plastic bags. Do not leave water in sinks or liquids in buckets.
- Clear waste food and spills - remove food debris from prep areas and remove food scraps daily keeping garbage and compost in sealed containers.
- Contain pet food - Empty pet drink, pet food, and litter trays for overnight.
- Rinse containers - Rinse bottles, cans and other containers before disposal.
- No Clutter - Do not (or throw out) newspaper and magazine piles, cardboard boxes and other clutter from all areas.
- Seal points of entry- Fill gaps around pipes, drains and in walls shared with other buildings when dealing with German, Oriental and American cockroaches. Small cracks around electrical sockets should be plugged also.