Cockroaches
About
What are cockroaches?
Cockroaches have flat, oval-shaped bodies, six legs, and long thread-like antennae. Depending on the species, cockroaches vary in size, color, and flying capability, but in many cases, male cockroaches have two sets of wings, while females are wingless.
Some of the species found in our area include the following:
- American Cockroaches
- Brown-banded Cockroaches
- German Cockroaches
- Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches
- Oriental Cockroaches
- Smokey Brown Cockroaches
American cockroaches are the largest home-invading species, sometimes growing to over two inches long, while brown-banded cockroaches are the smallest, growing up to 1/2 an inch long. These pests can differ significantly based on the species.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Cockroaches in your home are among the most dangerous pests because of the many diseases they can spread to people and other health concerns they cause. The diseases spread by cockroaches include but are not limited to:
- Listeriosis
- Giardia
- Leprosy
- Dysentery
- Cholera
- Salmonellosis
- Gastroenteritis
When cockroaches infest, they can also trigger allergies and asthma and cause contamination.
Why do I have a cockroach problem?
Although cockroaches can happen in any home, they are more common in homes with available food sources. But cockroaches are decomposers and aren't picky; they will eat everything from crumbs to food grease to waste and more.
Cockroaches are also attracted to places that provide darkness and dampness.
Where will I find cockroaches?
Most cockroach species are nocturnal and require moisture to survive, so they naturally gravitate toward areas in the house such as the bathroom, basement, garage, and laundry room. They are also a big issue in kitchens where they can choose between many different food options.
How do I get rid of cockroaches?
If you are dealing with a cockroach infestation in Nassau or Suffolk County, contact us at All Safe Pest Control. We will start you with a full home inspection to determine what species you are dealing with, how severe the infestation is, where the nest is located, and what conducive conditions are present.
After the inspection, we will use an aerosol to draw out these pests and a spray to eliminate them on contact and treat the nest. These methods are part of a three-part treatment process where we will return to reinspect, treat again if necessary, and look for any newly formed problems.
Contact All Safe Pest Control for more information about our professional cockroach control process.
How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?
To prevent future issues with cockroaches, utilize the following prevention steps to make your home less conducive to cockroach activity:
- Reduce moisture by repairing leaky pipes and faucets, addressing poor ventilation, and using dehumidifiers in the necessary rooms.
- Remove food sources by cleaning up eating areas daily, storing food in plastic or glass containers with lids that fit, and using garbage cans with lids.
- Remove entry points by looking for cracks in your foundation, repairing any gaps around windows and doors, and covering drains and vents properly.