Cockroaches are high on homeowners’ list of most despised pests, and the mere sight of one dashing across your kitchen floor is enough to send a shiver down your spine. But aside from invading your home in search of food and refuge, these unsightly creatures can also cause health problems. Just how much do you know about cockroaches? Read below and find out!
Cockroaches only infest homes that are cluttered and filthy. True or False?
False. Cockroaches aren’t picky! While they typically prosper in homes and buildings that are filled with clutter and grime, they also infest the cleanest of homes. These trespassers can enter homes many ways, including through cracks around loose-fitting windows and doors, sewer lines and drain pipes, electrical lines, and infested furniture. Once inside, they seek safe dark, moist havens in cracks around cabinets and baseboards, near sinks or under furniture and other appliances — basically anywhere.
It is important to protect your family and home from cockroach invasions through preventative measures. Caulk and seal all cracks around windows and doors. Fix holes, screen vents and other areas that might allow access. Tightly seal all food in containers. Tidy up in and outside of your home. Be sure to inspect your home regularly, identifying ways to eliminate food and breeding grounds. Check with your local pest control company for additional tips on preventing and controlling invasions.
Cockroaches leave trails of bacteria that can cause health problems in humans. True or False?
True. As these dirty creatures scurry along surfaces in your home, they leave trails of feces and bacteria that are known triggers of allergies and asthma. Cockroaches also produce an unpleasant odor and can spread a number of diseases including Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.
While most cockroaches pose the same health risks, different species are found in different regions of the country. There are many types of cockroaches, so understanding which are common to your area can help you better prevent and control infestations and reduce your chances of becoming ill. Check with your state’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), university extension, or a local pest control professional to learn more about the types of cockroaches in your area and ways to maintain a healthy and pest-free environment.
