Released October 23, 2009
CLARENDON, Ark. - Now that cooler fall temperatures have settled in, Arkansans should take care to insect-proof their home, said Van Banks, Monroe County extension agent for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
"If you are like me, you are annoyed when beetles, box elder bugs, crickets, stinkbugs, spiders or any of the various other million or so different insect pests invade your home this time of year," said Banks.
Insects often creep into homes this time of year to escape the colder temperatures outside. Insect-proofing helps keep these unwanted pests out.
Don't reach for that can of bug spray just yet, though, said Banks.
"The first thing most people think of when trying to prevent an insect problem is, 'What insecticide do I spray?'" he said. Banks first recommended a few preventative methods designed to create a barrier between the home and the pests.
First, try to eliminate entryways used by pests. Things to consider outside the home include inspecting and repairing all caulking, weather stripping, screens and loose siding, and using residual insecticides around the foundation of the home.
"Try to eliminate areas that can harbor insects inside the home," said Banks.
Insects are attracted to places where they can rest and find food or moisture. Keep insects out by sealing indoor cracks and crevices, eliminating any leaks or moisture, storing food properly, and keeping lids on garbage cans.
"If the listed maintenance and sanitation guidelines are carried out, pests will be discouraged or prevented from invading in the first place," said Banks.
If nuisance pests do get inside in large numbers, they can be vacuumed up, and the vacuum cleaner bag can be discarded outside. Try lining the vacuum cleaner hose with a stocking so insects will be conveniently bagged.
In low numbers, pests can be swept into a dustpan and removed by hand. Or if the homeowner chooses, an over-the-counter aerosol insecticide may be used, spraying the insect directly and then removing the dead insect by hand.
Over-the-counter residual insecticides labeled for crack and crevice or surface treatment may also be used, said Banks. "This will provide relief against low numbers of insects only and should never be relied on with high numbers present," he said.
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http://www.uaex.edu/news/october2009/1023insect_proofing.htm
Writer: Mary Hightower, (501) 671-2126, mhightower@uaex.edu
