Yearly Archive October 11, 2024

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Carpet Beetle Dermatitis

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
ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Bed bugs in Daycare Facilities

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Bed bugs!!! They move between apartments and connected townhouse – through the walls!

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

When does wasp season end and what happens to the queen and nest?

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Where do mice like to be in a house?

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

https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/where-do-mice-like-to-be-in-a-house/

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Real Pest Control Companies and Snake oil door to door pest control salesmen

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://insectandrodentexterminators.com/3103-2/

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

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

A Clean Kitchen Isn’t What Mice Want to See

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

September 27, 2024

When I pulled out my gas stove to clean, I was shocked by what I found—an area coated in dirt, soot, and biological matter that explained my recurring mouse problem. Despite cleaning the kitchen floor at least twice a week, crumbs and food debris had accumulated under the stove, providing the mice with a feast fit for multiple families.

Now, I’ve made it a point to clean under both my fridge and stove at least a couple of times a month. Leaving food remnants in those hidden spots is just an invitation for unwanted guests!

Signs of Mouse Activity

After eating, mice leave behind small, dark droppings that look like grains of rice. These can be found near feeding areas or along their paths. You might also notice smudge marks or grease stains on surfaces they frequently contact, as well as gnaw marks on food packaging or other materials. If you spot any of these signs, it’s crucial to clean thoroughly and take steps to prevent further infestations.

Health Risks

Mice can carry and transmit several diseases through their droppings, urine, and saliva. Here are some notable ones:

  1. Hantavirus: Can cause severe respiratory issues and is spread through contact with droppings or urine.
  2. Leptospirosis: Transmitted through water contaminated by rodent urine, leading to flu-like symptoms and potential complications.
  3. Salmonella: Mice can contaminate food with this bacteria, resulting in food poisoning.
  4. Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCMV): Spread through contact with droppings or urine, it can cause flu-like symptoms and neurological issues.
  5. Tularemia: Less common but can be transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their secretions.

To minimize these health risks, maintaining cleanliness and taking preventive measures to control mouse populations in your home is essential. A clean kitchen isn’t just pleasant—it’s vital for health and safety!

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/clean-kitchen-isnt-what-mice-want-see-randy-bilesky-q5nsc

ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

How to Get Rid of Ants: A Comprehensive Guide

Ants can be unwelcome guests in your home, and while they generally don’t pose serious health risks, their presence can be a nuisance. Here’s a straightforward approach to preventing and eliminating ant infestations effectively.

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

September 25, 2024

Understanding Ant Behavior

What Attracts Ants?

Ants enter homes primarily for food, water, and shelter. Common food sources include:

  • Sugary substances: Honey, syrup, and sweets.
  • Proteins: Leftovers, pet food, and meats.
  • Fats and carbohydrates: Chips, oils, and grains.

Types of Ants

The two most common types you may encounter are:

  • Odorous House Ants: Small and often found in kitchens and bathrooms. They are more of a nuisance and don’t cause structural damage.
  • Carpenter Ants: Larger and can damage wood by tunneling through damp or rotted materials.

Identifying the species is crucial, as different ants require different control methods.

How Ants Enter Your Home

Ants can infiltrate through:

  • Cracks and crevices in walls, doors, and windows.
  • Utility lines and trees that touch your home.
  • Basements and damp areas.

Ant-Proofing Your Home

1. Maintain Cleanliness

  • Clean up spills and crumbs immediately, especially sugary liquids.
  • Store food in airtight containers to eliminate easy access.

2. Eliminate Damp Areas

  • Fix leaks and dry out any damp spots in your home, particularly in basements and kitchens.
  • Regularly inspect and maintain wooden structures like decks to prevent rotting.

3. Set Ant Baits

  • Use ant baits that contain attractive food sources. These help eliminate the colony by poisoning foragers that take the bait back to their nest.

4. Avoid Sprays

  • Avoid using insect sprays as a primary method of control. They often only kill visible ants and can lead to worse infestations by disturbing the colony.

5. Skip DIY Solutions

  • While natural remedies (like cinnamon) may seem appealing, they are generally ineffective. Professional pest control services are best for persistent problems.

6. Enhance Outdoor Conditions

  • Keep your yard tidy to minimize food sources for ants. If you have plants, manage pests like aphids that produce honeydew, which ants love.

Conclusion

Ants can be a hassle, but with proactive measures, you can significantly reduce their chances of entering your home. Focus on cleanliness, proper maintenance, and using targeted bait strategies for effective control. If infestations persist, consult Go Green Pest Control who can provide tailored solutions for your specific situation.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-get-rid-ants-comprehensive-guide-randy-bilesky-xujjc

https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/how-to-get-rid-of-ants-a-comprehensive-guide/
ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Rats under your Hot Tub?

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

September 20, 2024

Rats may be attracted to your hot tub for several reasons:

  1. Water Source: Hot tubs provide a consistent source of water, which is essential for rats.
  2. Warmth: The heat from the hot tub can be appealing, especially in cooler weather, as it offers a warm place to rest.
  3. Shelter: The area around a hot tub can provide shelter and hiding spots for rats, making it a safe place for them.
  4. Food Sources: If there are food scraps or debris nearby, this can attract rats looking for easy meals.
  5. Nesting Material: If there are soft materials around, rats might find them suitable for building nests.

To deter rats, ensure your hot tub area is clean, remove any food sources, and consider securing the area to prevent access.

If you have rats under your hot tub, here are some steps you can take:

  1. Identify Signs: Look for droppings, gnaw marks, or nests to confirm their presence.
  2. Remove Attractants: Make sure there’s no food or trash nearby that could be attracting them.
  3. Seal Entry Points: Inspect the area for holes or gaps where rats might be entering and seal them up.
  4. Traps: Use humane traps or snap traps to catch them. Place them near their entry points or signs of activity.
  5. Repellents: Consider using natural repellents like peppermint oil or commercial rat repellents.
  6. Consult Professionals: If the problem persists, it might be best to contact Go Green Pest Control, experts for safe and effective removal.
  7. Monitor: After taking action, keep an eye on the area to ensure they don’t return.
  8. https://gogreenpestcontrol.ca/rats-under-your-hot-tub-2/
  9. https://insectandrodentexterminators.com/rats-under-your-hot-tub-2/
  10. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/rats-under-your-hot-tub-randy-bilesky-ayuoc
ByRandy Bilesky BsF CPA RPF

Nasty smell of a deceased rat in your house? What causes the smell and what can be done.

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green

September 13, 2024

The nasty smell of a deceased rodent is typically caused by the decomposition process. As it’s body breaks down, it releases gases and compounds that produce a foul odor. This smell can be quite intense and pervasive, especially if the rat has been dead for some time or if it’s in an enclosed space.

Here’s what you can do to address the problem:

  1. Locate the Source: Try to find where the rat is. Common places include attics, walls, basements, and under floors. You might need to look for signs like droppings, nesting materials, or other indicators.
  2. Remove the Body: If you can locate the dead rat, wear gloves and use a tool (like tongs or a shovel) to remove it. Place the rat in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it properly according to your local regulations.
  3. Clean the Area: After removal, clean the area thoroughly with disinfectant. This helps eliminate any remaining odor and bacteria. Make sure to ventilate the area well.
  4. Odor Neutralizers: Use odor-neutralizing products to help with any lingering smell. Options include activated charcoal, baking soda, or commercial odor neutralizers. Place them in the affected area to absorb and mask the odor.
  5. Inspect for Entry Points: Check for and seal any entry points where rats might have gained access. This helps prevent future infestations.
  6. Consider Professional Help: If the smell persists or if you’re unable to locate the source, it might be worth calling a pest control professional. They can help locate and remove the dead rat, as well as address any ongoing pest issues.

The foul odor from a deceased animal, such as a rat, is due to a mix of gases and compounds produced during decomposition. Here are some of the key contributors to that unpleasant smell:

  1. Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S): This gas has a distinctive smell of rotten eggs. It is produced by the breakdown of proteins in the body.
  2. Putrescine and Cadaverine: These are biogenic amines produced by the bacterial decomposition of amino acids. They have strong, unpleasant odors often associated with rotting flesh.
  3. Methane (CH₄): While not as pungent, methane is produced during the decomposition process and can contribute to the overall odor.
  4. Ammonia (NH₃): Ammonia is released from the breakdown of urea and other nitrogenous compounds. It has a sharp, irritating smell.
  5. Skatole and Indole: These compounds are derived from the breakdown of tryptophan and other amino acids. They can contribute to the characteristic “fecal” smell.
  6. Fatty Acids: Decomposing fat produces short-chain fatty acids, which can contribute to the rancid odor.

These compounds are released as bacteria and other microorganisms break down the tissues in the animal’s body. The smell can be quite intense and pervasive, making it important to address the source of the odor promptly.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/nasty-smell-deceased-rat-your-house-what-causes-can-done-bilesky-0jzuc