Monthly Archive October 15, 2024

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

October 15, 2024

Hamsters and rats are distinct species, though they share some similarities as small mammals. Hamsters belong to the subfamily Cricetinae and are typically kept as pets, while rats are part of the family Muridae.

Hamsters have stockier bodies, shorter legs, and a more rounded appearance, whereas rats have longer, more slender bodies and tails. In terms of behavior, hamsters are generally more solitary and nocturnal, while rats are social animals that thrive in groups. So, while they might look somewhat similar at a glance, they’re quite different in terms of biology and behavior!

Hamsters can carry and transmit a few diseases, although they are generally considered lower-risk pets. Some of the diseases associated with hamsters include:

1. Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCMV): A viral infection that can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected droppings, urine, or saliva.
2. Salmonella: Hamsters can carry this bacteria, which can cause gastrointestinal illness in humans, especially if proper hygiene isn’t practiced.
3. Hantavirus: Although rare, some species of rodents can carry hantavirus, which can be transmitted through urine, droppings, or saliva.
4. Ringworm: A fungal infection that can be transmitted to humans and other pets through direct contact.
5. Bacterial Infections: Hamsters can also harbor bacteria like Pasteurella and Streptococcus, which can sometimes lead to infections in humans.

Good hygiene practices, such as regular cleaning of cages and washing hands after handling pets, can significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/hamsters-aka-cute-rats-randy-bilesky-d15yc

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

October 11, 2024

Carpet beetle larvae can cause skin irritation in some individuals, especially if they come into contact with the tiny, bristle-like hairs on the larvae’s body, this is called Carpet beetle dermatitis. This irritation can manifest as rashes or allergic reactions, often resembling insect bites. To prevent irritation:

1. Clean regularly: Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and areas where larvae might be hiding.
2. Store items properly: Use airtight containers for clothing and textiles.
3. Inspect items: Check second-hand goods or stored items for signs of infestation.
4. Pest Control: Consider Go Green Pest Control if infestations are severe.

If irritation occurs, washing the affected area with soap and water can help, and over-the-counter antihistamines may relieve symptoms. If severe reactions occur, consult a healthcare professional.

Symptoms can include:

• Red, itchy rash: Often resembling insect bites or hives.
• Swelling: Affected areas may become swollen.
• Blistering: In some cases, blisters can develop.

Treatment

1. Topical creams: Hydrocortisone cream can reduce inflammation.
2. Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines may alleviate itching and swelling.
3. Cool compresses: Applying a cool cloth can soothe irritated skin.
4. https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/carpet-beetle-dermatitis/
5. https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/carpet-beetle-dermatitis/
6. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/carpet-beetle-dermatitis-randy-bilesky-igtcc

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

October 11, 2024

Addressing bed bugs in child and youth daycare facilities requires careful planning and prompt action. Here are some tailored strategies to effectively manage and prevent infestations:

Prevention

1. Education and Training: Train staff on how to identify bed bugs and understand their behaviors. Provide resources to parents about bed bug prevention and detection.
2. Inspection Protocols: Implement routine inspections of common areas, sleeping mats, and furniture. Check children’s personal belongings when they arrive.
3. Minimize Clutter: Reduce clutter in classrooms and play areas to make inspections easier and limit hiding spots.
4. Safe Practices for Items: encourage the use of sealed bags for children’s belongings and discourage sharing personal items.

Detection

1. Recognizing Signs: Look for small reddish-brown bugs, bite marks on children, and dark spots on bedding or furniture.
2. Monitoring High-Risk Areas: Pay close attention to sleeping areas, upholstery, and storage spaces.

Response

1. Immediate Action Plan: If bed bugs are found, isolate the affected area and notify staff and parents immediately while maintaining confidentiality.
2. Treatment and Follow-Up: Schedule treatment and follow-up inspections to ensure that the treatment was effective and to prevent re-infestation.

Communication

1. Transparent Communication with Parents: Keep parents informed about the situation, treatment steps, and preventive measures they can take at home.
2. Guidance for Parents: Provide tips for identifying and addressing bed bugs at home, including inspecting luggage and clothing after travel.

Follow-Up

1. Ongoing Monitoring: Continue to monitor the facility regularly even after treatment to catch any potential re-infestations early.
2. Review and Adjust Policies: Assess the effectiveness of your pest management plan regularly and make necessary adjustments based on experiences.

By prioritizing education, prevention, and open communication, daycare facilities can effectively manage the risks associated with bed bugs, ensuring a safe environment for children.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bed-bugs-daycare-facilities-randy-bilesky-jjhyc

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

October 9, 2024

Bed bugs can move between units, between apartments and townhouses, through walls, electrical outlets, and other small openings. They are adept at crawling through tight spaces, and if there are any gaps or cracks, they can travel between units in search of food or shelter. It’s important to address infestations promptly to prevent them from spreading.

Bed bugs are quite small, typically measuring roughly 6 to 7 mm and about as wide as a pencil. They can squeeze through gaps as small as 1.5 mm. This means they can easily move through small cracks in walls, around baseboards, and through gaps in doors and windows. Keeping these areas sealed can help prevent their movement between units.

Bed bugs typically leave one apartment for another in search of food, which is human blood. Here are a few reasons why they might migrate:

1. Lack of Food: If their current host is not available, they will search for a new one.
2. Overcrowding: In heavily infested areas, they may move to find less crowded environments.
3. Environmental Changes: Changes in temperature, humidity, or disturbances (like cleaning or pest control treatments) might drive them to seek shelter elsewhere.

Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers and can easily latch onto personal items like purses, luggage, clothing, or even used furniture. They tend to thrive in environments where people gather, making it easy for them to travel unnoticed. If you’re experiencing signs of an infestation, it’s important to inspect these items closely and take precautions when traveling or bringing secondhand items into your home. Early detection and prompt action can help prevent a more significant problem. If you suspect a bed bug issue, consider contacting Go Green Pest Control, a pest control professional for an assessment.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bed-bugs-move-between-apartments-connected-townhouse-randy-bilesky-dsc0c

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

October 9, 2024

Wasp season typically ends in late fall, around October to November. As temperatures drop, the workers die off, and the queen prepares for winter. The old nest and its inhabitants do not survive the winter. When temperatures drop and the season’s first frost arrives, most wasps can no longer fly and can’t survive from the cold. If a nest is left to die out naturally then potentially that nest may produce hundreds of fertile Queens which makes the risk of the nesting site and their neighbours having wasp nests the following year much greater. If a wasp nest is left undisturbed, it will indeed eventually die out as the colony declines in late fall. However, as mentioned, a large nest can produce numerous fertile queens that will emerge in the spring. Each of these queens can establish a new colony, increasing the likelihood of multiple nests appearing in the area the following year.

Additionally, leaving a nest can create risks in terms of safety, especially if people frequently come near it. Even if the nest is inactive in the fall, any disturbance might provoke defensive behavior from the remaining wasps. Therefore, while letting a nest die out naturally might seem like a low-effort approach, it can lead to increased wasp activity in subsequent seasons. If wasps are a concern, it’s often best to have the nest safely removed, preferably in late fall or early spring when the activity is lower.

A wasp nest is primarily made of paper-like material that the wasps create by chewing wood fibers mixed with their saliva. This pulp is then molded into layers, forming the nest structure. The material is usually a combination of wood from trees, fences, or other cellulose sources. Wasp nests can decompose over time through natural processes. Factors like moisture, temperature, and microbial activity contribute to this breakdown. The nest may start to deteriorate after the wasps abandon it, particularly in colder months, as it becomes vulnerable to decay from fungi, insects, and other organisms. Eventually, the nest can disintegrate completely, leaving little trace behind.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/when-does-wasp-season-end-what-happens-queen-nest-randy-bilesky-ie6tc

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

October 8, 2024

Mice tend to seek out areas that offer shelter, warmth, and food. Common places they like to inhabit in a house include:

1. Kitchens: Near food sources, especially in cabinets or pantries.
2. Basements: They often find cozy spots in boxes, clutter, or around water sources.
3. Attics: Warm, undisturbed areas are appealing for nesting.
4. Walls and insulation: Mice can create nests in wall cavities or insulation material.
5. Crawl spaces: These provide hidden areas for them to hide and nest.
6. Near plumbing: Mice are attracted to areas with water, so they often nest near sinks or water heaters.

Keeping food stored properly and sealing entry points can help deter them from settling in.

1. Store food in airtight containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight seals to keep food safe from mice.
2. Clean up crumbs and spills: Regularly sweep and wipe down surfaces to eliminate food sources.
3. Seal entry points: Check for gaps in walls, around pipes, and near doors or windows, and seal them with materials like caulk or steel wool.
4. Reduce clutter: Keep areas tidy, especially in basements, attics, and garages, to eliminate hiding spots.
5. Use traps or deterrents: Consider humane traps or natural deterrents like peppermint oil, which mice tend to avoid.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of mice making your home their own!

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/where-do-mice-like-house-randy-bilesky-pqy9c

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

October 4, 2024

So, pest control and snake oil salesmen, particularly in a door-to-door context. Historically, snake oil salesmen were known for selling dubious remedies with exaggerated claims, often targeting vulnerable customers. In the pest control industry, especially with some less reputable companies, you can find similar practices. Some door-to-door salespeople might use aggressive tactics or make unrealistic promises about their pest control solutions, potentially preying on people’s fears of infestations.

Both types of salesmen rely on persuasive language, often emphasizing urgency and fear to close the sale.

Here are some strategies for identifying trustworthy pest control services and tips for handling aggressive door-to-door sales tactics:

Identifying Trustworthy Pest Control Services

1. Research and Reviews:
   • Look for reviews on Ladner Landing Facebook sight and Tsawwassen Loop Facebook site, or use Google to locate local “not sponsored” firms.
2. Licensing and Certifications:
   • Ensure the company is licensed and insured.
   • Look for certifications from reputable organizations, like the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).
3. Experience and Reputation:
   • Choose companies with a proven track record in your area.
   • Ask for references and follow up on them.
4. Detailed Estimates:
   • Get written estimates that clearly outline the services provided.
   • Be wary of lowball estimates that seem too good to be true.
5. Treatment Plans:
   • A reputable company should offer a detailed plan, explaining the methods and products they use.
   • They should also provide information about safety and environmental considerations.
6. Guarantees and Follow-ups:
   • Look for companies that offer satisfaction guarantees or follow-up services to ensure the problem is resolved.

Tips for Handling Aggressive Door-to-Door Sales Tactics

1. Trust Your Instincts:
   • If someone shows up at your door on a scooter and tablet claiming that your neighbor a couple doors down just had their house sprayed and they can offer you a discount cause their in the area, close the door. If something feels off, it’s okay to decline the offer.
2. Stay Calm and Polite:
   • If approached, remain calm and courteous, even if you feel pressured.
3. Know Your Rights:
   • Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding door-to-door sales. Many areas have regulations on solicitation.
4. Ask Questions:
   • Request details about the company, their services, and any promotions. Trustworthy sellers will be open to answering.
5. Don’t Rush into Decisions:
   • Don’t feel pressured to make an immediate decision. It’s okay to say you need time to think or to consult with others.
6. Request Written Information:
   • Ask for brochures or business cards so you can research the company later.
7. Report Suspicious Behavior:
   • If you encounter aggressive or fraudulent sales tactics, report them to local authorities or consumer protection agencies.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/real-pest-control-companies-snake-oil-door-salesmen-randy-bilesky-4bmrc