When one has identified a pest species, possibly with the help from the keys, tables and descriptions, the next step is to find out the goods it is likely to attack.
In a factory the control of pests will usually require expert assistance. In a house, on the other hand, one can sometimes do it oneself and the following lines of action are suggested.
How do I prevent and control mice in my house?
- Empty cupboards
Empty the cupboards and perhaps throw away any lining paper.
- Cleaning rooms
Thoroughly clean all cupboards and shelves, preferably with a vacuum cleaner which can remove insects and dirt from cracks and crevices. Laundry should be properly dried, as damp encourages most pests.
- Examine goods
Examine the goods before putting them back in place. It is usually best to throw away any that are infested.
- Treat infested items
If the goods are only slightly infested or if one has any doubts, it is often possible to save them by warming them in an oven; a temperature of 80° C will kill all stages in the life cycle within a few minutes. The same result can be achieved by putting the goods in a deep freeze for a week.
- Repair and Prevent
In spite of thorough cleaning it will sometimes be necessary to treat in-accessible cracks and crevices with an insecticide. It is obvious that the strictest precautions must be taken if such substances are to be used in a kitchen or food store. In most cases insecticides based on pyrethrum (p. 219) will be the most suitable for use in the kitchen.
Read more about treatment methods.