5-15-08: North Carolina Families Welcome Spring, But Not the Pesky Pests that Follow
May 15, 2008
State’s Pest Management Association Urges Homeowners to Add Pest Management Strategies to Spring Cleaning
Raleigh, N.C. – Springtime in North Carolina means a new start. As the flowers return, the weather turns warm and the birds start singing, it’s the perfect time for North Carolina families to start the annual tradition of spring cleaning. Today, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), urged homeowners to go beyond just dusting and vacuuming and, instead, take some serious steps to ensure their homes stay pest-free.
“After spending all winter indoors, people love to get outside in the springtime,” said Kristin Dodd of Carolina Pest Management in Monroe and a board member of the NCPMA. “But as we begin heading outdoors to enjoy the warm weather, annoying pests like ants and spiders become active and can find their way inside our homes.”
The association is urging homeowners to incorporate important pest management strategies as they begin their spring cleaning routines. According to the association, ignoring the increased presence of pests in the spring months can result in serious infestations and other problems that can bring health risks to families.
“Spring is about renewal and a fresh start. Because of this, the North Carolina Pest Management Association believes families right now have a perfect opportunity to ensure their homes are serviced properly by a trained professional,” said Burns Blackwell of Terminix Company in Greensboro and a board member of the NCPMA. “Our association encourages people to add pest management to their spring cleaning lists to help their homes stay clean and healthy throughout the year.”
The NCPMA has offered the following tips for families to help ensure a pest-free spring cleaning:
Keep it closed. Keep windows and doors closed to keep pests from coming inside the home.
Bag it! Reduce dust-mites, carpet beetles and spiders in your home by vacuuming your home thoroughly including carpets, draperies and mattresses and box springs.
Clean your closets. To reduce carpet beetles and moths in your home, get rid of unwanted clothing in your closet and especially on your floor.
Keep an eye on pets. Make sure you watch your pets closely, especially if they spend time outdoors. Check your pets’ fur for ticks regularly and make sure you speak with your veterinarian about flea protection.
Schedule regular pest inspections. Get your home inspected regularly by a qualified, licensed pest professional. Your pest professional can recommend steps you can take to make sure your home stays pest-free. Visit www.ncpestmanagement.org to find a pest professional in your area.
About the NCPMA
Founded in 1952, the North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA), is the trade association representing the professional pest management industry in North Carolina. NCPMA promotes the continued cooperation and success of all pest management businesses in North Carolina. Formerly, the North Carolina Pest Control Association, NCPMA is the only statewide association dedicated to representing and educating North Carolina’s pest management professionals. To learn more about NCPMA, please visit www.ncpestmanagement.org.
