Can You Catch Mosquito-Borne Disease in Tennessee?

Mosquito bites arm, introducing possibility you can catch mosquito-borne illness in Tennessee

Mosquitoes are often seen as mere nuisances, but their impact goes beyond that. Globally, these tiny pests are vectors for deadly diseases like malaria, Zika, and Dengue. Here in Tennessee, fortunately, we don’t deal with the same risk factors as in many parts of the world, especially tropical regions. Still, these risk factors do exist. For example, while rare, local transmission of West Nile virus has been recorded in recent years.

In this blog, we’ll talk about the danger of mosquito-borne diseases, and whether you can catch them here in Tennessee.

Do Mosquitoes in Tennessee Carry West Nile Virus?

Yes, mosquitoes in Tennessee can carry West Nile virus. Although diagnoses are rare, West Nile is the biggest mosquito-borne disease risk in the area. In 2023, the Metro Public Health Department found West Nile Virus present in 30 of 40 surveillance sites across the region.

Symptoms of West Nile virus can include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • Skin rash
  • Swollen lymph glands
  • In severe cases, neurological illnesses such as meningitis or encephalitis

What’s the Risk of Catching a Mosquito-Borne Disease in Tennessee?

While the risk in Tennessee is generally low, being aware is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of various mosquito-borne diseases and whether they’ve been recorded in our region:

  • Malaria: Not currently found in Tennessee. Cases have been reported in both Florida and Texas in recent years.
  • Dengue: No cases transmitted locally; travel-related cases only.
  • Yellow Fever: No current transmission in Tennessee.
  • Zika Virus: Primarily travel-associated; last recorded case of locally transmitted Zika in the United States was in 2017.
  • Rift Valley Fever: Not present in Tennessee.
  • Schistosomiasis: Not transmitted by mosquitoes and not present in Tennessee.
  • Chagas Disease: Although sometimes believed to be mosquito-borne, Chagas disease is spread by kissing bugs. Kissing bugs are primarily tropical insects, though they have been seen in Tennessee in recent years. The good news it that locally transmitted cases of Chagas have not been detected.

Why Is It Important to Monitor Mosquitoes Even If They Don’t Carry Disease?

Monitoring mosquitoes remains critical even in areas where disease transmission is none or minimal. Why? It’s simple. Mosquito populations and the diseases they carry can shift geographically over time.

Changes in local environments can alter mosquito ranges, potentially introducing new risks. In tropical regions, where weather conditions favor mosquitoes, many diseases are endemic. With rising global temperatures, these conditions could extend to new areas, including Tennessee.

Minimize Your Risk with Mosquito Control Service

Mosquitoes are more than just a summer annoyance; they are a potential vector for serious illnesses. Some places naturally have a higher mosquito population than others due to environmental factors like moisture and humidity. A study conducted by Terminix identified the top 50 “mosquito-infested” cities in the U.S., and two of them are in Tennessee.

If you’re concerned about mosquitoes on your property, contact us today for a free estimate on comprehensive mosquito control services. Let’s keep your summer safe and enjoyable!

Cicadas Special Emergence In Tennessee

Cicadas In Tennessee from Inman-Murphy | Cockroach Control in TN

Inman-Murphy Pest Control is excited to show you a special natural event that will catch the attention of Tennessee and nearby places this year. We are about to see an amazing natural sight, where the sounds of cicadas link the past with the present. This event is not just interesting to look at; it’s a great chance to learn more about how nature works. Come with us as we discover how cicadas live and affect our environment, teaching us how to get along with these incredible insects.

How Rare Is This Natural Phenomenon?

The year 2024 is highlighted by a unique natural event in Tennessee and adjacent states: the concurrent emergence of two cicada broods. This event was last observed 221 years ago in the 1800s and is not anticipated to recur until 2245. This is different from normal because typically these broods emerge at predictable times with one species of cicada at a time. This extraordinary emergence will occur from mid-May through late June. 

Cicada Basics

Living predominantly in the ground, cicadas emerge primarily for mating purposes or at the end of their life span. Their life cycles, which typically last 17 or 13 years, culminate in a synchronized emergence that animates the summer ambiance with their resonant songs.

The Significance of Understanding Cicadas

Although cicadas pose no danger to humans, their abundant numbers can pose a threat to young trees and plants, their main food sources. By understanding their ecological impact, we can take steps to protect our plants and trees, thereby reducing the necessity for aggressive pest control extermination.

Dealing With Cicadas

There is no requirement for large-scale cicada management efforts. Inman-Murphy Pest Control advises employing protective measures, such as netting for saplings, to safeguard them against potential damage from this natural event. 

Be Aware of Potential Cicada Urine Propulsion

During the fascinating emergence of cicadas, there is a peculiar phenomenon to note: the powerful propulsion of cicada urine. Cicadas drink a lot of fluid from trees and plants, like water and sap, called xylem. While other bugs that consume xylem release urine in simple droplets, cicadas can eject their urine at speeds of up to three meters per second. This extraordinary feature stems from their large consumption of xylem, making the energy-efficient expulsion of droplets a necessity. Therefore, a sudden, unexpected sprinkle on a clear day during the cicada season could very well be from a cicada’s forceful urination from above.

Looking Ahead

The emergence of cicadas teaches us valuable lessons about nature’s intricate timing and complexity, highlighting the importance of learning to live in harmony with the natural world. 

If you have any questions or need advice on preparing for the cicada season or dealing with other pest-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Inman-Murphy.

Exploring the Realm of Joro Spiders: Insights for Tennessee Residents

Joro spider from Inman-Murphy | Cockroach Control in TN

Have you recently stumbled upon an unexpected guest on your property, perhaps a spider that appears unusually large? If you’ve witnessed a conspicuously large arachnid weaving its intricate web amidst your trees, rest assured, you’re not alone. An increasing number of residents in Mid-South TN have reported sightings of what is presumed to be the Joro Spider, an orb-weaver species gradually extending its domain across the eastern United States.

This blog is meticulously tailored to offer valuable insights into the presence of this captivating arachnid within your local environment and to determine whether any measures for spider extermination services are warranted.

What does Joro Spider look like?

Characterized by its substantial physique and vivid colors, the Joro Spider easily distinguishes itself from the more common spider species you may encounter. Notably, the contrast between males and females is striking, owing to sexual dimorphism, a biological phenomenon where both sexes of a species exhibit distinctive characteristics beyond their sexual organs.

Female Joro Spider:

  • Size: Impressive, with a body length ranging from approximately 0.75 to 1 inch and a leg span extending up to 4 inches.
  • Coloration: Marked by bright yellow and blue tones adorned with distinct red markings.
  • Web: Constructs expansive, intricate webs spanning up to 10 feet in diameter.

Male Joro Spider:

  • Size: Noticeably smaller when compared to females.
  • Coloration: Exhibits darker and less vibrant hues, with subdued colors.
  • Web: Does not engage in web-building activities like their female counterparts.

The Joro Spider’s web itself is a marvel—vast, golden, and exceptionally robust, resembling a glistening thread adept at capturing a diverse array of insects.

Where Can the Joro Spider be Found?

Initially presumed to require expansive natural habitats in tropical climates for optimal survival, the Joro Spider has defied expectations by showcasing a remarkable adaptability to diverse environments, including urban landscapes. Notable sightings near highways and within cities have underscored their impressive ability to thrive, prompting investigations into the potential scope of their range expansion.

Are Joro Spiders a Threat?

Despite their imposing appearance, Joro spiders typically pose minimal threat to humans. While equipped with fangs capable of biting, these arachnids tend to display timid behavior, opting to flee rather than confront.

Origins and Future Prospects for the Joro Spider:

Originating from East Asia, the Joro Spider is believed to have unintentionally infiltrated the U.S. via shipping containers, leading to their presence in various states, including Mid-South TN. As for the future of the Joro Spider in Mid-South TN, indications suggest their continued presence and proliferation. With their adaptability and successful breeding patterns, their population will likely expand, further integrating them into the local ecosystem.

Questions About Spiders or Other Pest Concerns?

While the appearance of the Joro Spider in Mid-South TN may initially raise concerns due to its size and unfamiliar appearance, it’s essential to acknowledge that they pose little threat. However, understanding and coexisting with new species can present challenges.

If you have inquiries about the Joro Spider or any other pest-related issues, do not hesitate to reach out to Inman-Murphy, Inc. for expert guidance, information, and specialized spider management services. Our team is well-prepared with the requisite knowledge and tools to address any pest-related situation, ensuring your home remains a safe and comfortable environment.

How to Keep Pests Out of Your Home’s HVAC System

How to Keep Pests Out of Your Home’s HVAC System | Inman-Murphy, Inc.

If you have been worried about pest infestations, you might think of termites and other wood-boring insects gnawing away at your walls and foundations, or roaches and ants crawling around your pantry. There are many places throughout a home that automatically come to mind when pests are of concern.

If you’re concerned about pests and want to learn more about how you can prevent an infestation, keep reading!

Can You Get Pests In Your HVAC System?

Yes! Unfortunately, your HVAC system is not safe from pests. Your HVAC system is one of the key components of your home—it keeps everyone comfortable, maintains humidity levels, ensures good air quality, and, unfortunately, it can also provide a cozy home for various pests.

First things first, if you have any problems with your HVAC system, always contact a local HVAC services company. If you already have a pest control problem in your heating and air system, contact us immediately to prevent the infestation from getting worse.

If you don’t have a pest problem but are concerned you may have one soon, follow these steps to prevent an infestation:

What are Some Common HVAC Pests to Watch Out for?

Several pests are most likely to find their way into your HVAC system, including:

Rodents (Commonly Mice and Rats)

Behavior: Rodents are notorious for seeking shelter in warm, hidden spaces, and HVAC systems offer an ideal habitat. They can enter through small openings in search of food, warmth, and nesting sites.

Impact: Rodents can chew through ductwork, insulation, and wiring, causing significant damage to your HVAC system. Their droppings and urine can also contaminate the system, leading to health concerns and foul odors. Additionally, they may carry diseases that can be transmitted through the air.

Prevention: To prevent rodent infestations:

  • Seal any openings in your home’s foundation, walls, and roof.
  • Regularly inspect your HVAC system for signs of rodent activity, such as chewed wires or nests, and address any issues promptly.

Insects (Ants, Roaches, and Others)

Behavior: Insects, such as ants, termites, and roaches, can infiltrate your HVAC system through tiny openings in search of food and shelter. Once inside, they can build nests, lay eggs, cause blockages, or even destruction!

Impact: Insect infestations can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system by clogging filters and air ducts. Additionally, they can introduce allergens and contaminants into the air, impacting indoor air quality.

Prevention: To prevent an insect infestation:

  • Install mesh screens over exterior air vents to prevent insect entry.
  • Regularly clean your HVAC system to remove debris and any insect nests.
  • Keep your home clean and free of food crumbs, as this can attract pests.

Spiders

Behavior: Spiders often spin webs in and around HVAC equipment due to the warmth generated by the system. These webs can accumulate over time and obstruct airflow.

Impact: While not as harmful as rodents or certain insects, spider webs can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. They may also lead to increased maintenance needs.

Prevention: You can prevent spiders from entering your HVAC system by:

  • Regularly inspect and clean your HVAC system to remove spider webs and their occupants.
  • Ensure that outdoor components are clear of debris that spiders may use as a nesting site.

Bees and Wasps

Behavior: Bees and wasps may build nests in and around HVAC units, especially during warmer months. These nests can obstruct airflow and pose safety risks.

Impact: Stinging insects like bees and wasps can be dangerous if disturbed. Their nests near HVAC units can lead to painful encounters. Additionally, nests can accumulate debris, reducing the efficiency of your system.

Prevention: To prevent bees & wasps:

How to Prevent Pests In Your HVAC System

Now that you know which pests to watch out for, here’s how to prevent them from invading your HVAC system:

Use Screens on Air Vents

Exterior air vents are prime entry points for insects. Install mesh screens, preferably made of aluminum wire, to cover these vents and keep pests out.

Maintain Cleanliness

Bugs and rodents can compromise your HVAC system’s air quality. Regular maintenance is crucial. Ensure your HVAC system is serviced periodically to keep it clean and identify any new infestations. Take these additional steps:

  • Eliminate standing water around your outside unit.
  • Clear away debris that accumulates in the vanes.
  • Change filters regularly to maintain clean air circulation.

Seal Ducts

Probably the easiest entry point for insects is through your ductwork. Loose seals and cracks give bugs the opportunity they need to enter and infest your HVAC system.

Sealing your ducts is relatively easy and affordable. You’ll need to purchase foil tape for smaller cracks, and sealant for large holes. While there are guides for maintaining your ductwork, if you don’t feel comfortable taking this on, or your ductwork isn’t easily accessible don’t hesitate to contact an HVAC professional to have ducts cleaned and sealed.

Schedule Your HVAC Pest Control Inspection Today

The most effective way to keep pests out of your heating and air system (and your entire home) is to schedule regular pest control treatments and maintenance. Consider quarterly treatments to address seasonal pests and monthly treatments if you have a history of serious infestations.

Protecting your HVAC system from pests is not only essential for its efficiency but also for the health and comfort of your home. By taking these preventive measures, you can ensure your HVAC system remains pest-free and continues to provide you with the comfort you rely on.

Call Inman-Murphy, Inc. today for a free consultation! 

Mosquito Prevention: Some Do’s, Some Don’ts

A person spraying bug spray on someone else's arm.

For those living in the beautiful city of Memphis it seems mosquito season is never ending. Many people are looking for a fast and easy solution to ending the attacks by these blood-thirsty feeders. While mosquito bites are annoying, they also cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
According to the World Health Organization, mosquitoes account for over 700,000 deaths per year. Mosquitoes pose great health risks from vector-borne diseases they can spread, such as:

  • Malaria
  • Zika Virus
  • West Nile Virus

DIY Mosquito Prevention Do’s

It is imperative to start mosquito prevention early before an infestation can start. Ultimately, the best method is professional pest control. Yet, many methods of DIY prevention can work, including:

  • Remove Standing Water: Dumping anything that water collects in as well as fixing any leaky or broken faucets will prevent standing water from forming. Mosquitoes love stagnant water as it is a perfect nursery for laying eggs.
  • Use Outdoor Fans: Considering mosquitoes are weak fliers, air currents from fans can push mosquitoes out and disperses the carbon monoxide we exhale.
  • Mosquito Netting: By adding netting to your doors and windows, you place a barrier round your space to keep the invading mosquitoes out. This netting also prevents other insects from getting into your home.
  • Use Bug Spray: Many EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin are available on the market. Use any insect repellent in accordance with the supplier’s instructions.

DIY Mosquito Prevention Don’ts

While there are many DIY methods that work, many methods do not work. Steer away from these:

  • Citronella Candles: While these candles are great for ambiance and saving electricity, they do little for repelling mosquitoes long-term. They need to be replaced often as they lose potency quickly. These candles are effective for a short amount of time and only if you are directly next to the candle.
  • Coffee Grounds: There is no solid evidence that burning coffee grounds or spreading the grounds around your yard works  in repelling mosquitoes. Instead, use the grounds in your compost bin for the garden!
  • Bug Zappers: Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale and our body heat. Bug zappers do not have either of these qualities going for them. Instead, these zappers can kill natural predators of mosquitoes and other good-doing insects.

Professional Pest Control Services

The never-ending fight against mosquitoes can leave you drained from keeping up on the DIY methods you choose. Spend your spring and summer months pest-free with the help of Inman-Murphy Termite & Pest Control. Our expert technicians come to your property to conduct an inspection and formulate a plan that suites your needs! Call today for a no-obligation consultation.

Common Swarming Insects this Spring

Several ants on a green leaf in springtime

Spring is here, which means the weather is warming and the flowers are blooming. However, this time of year also brings a less pleasant change… insects. As we come out of winter, bugs throughout the Mid-South TN area are waking up and searching for new places to infest. Knowing how to protect your property from common swarming insects this spring will help you prevent an infestation from taking root. 

What is a Swarm?

A swarm is a natural phenomenon where a large group of insects of the same species gather and move together as a group. In the spring, many pests throughout the Mid-South TN area swarm to find food and mate. Insect swarms can be visually striking and scary to encounter, but most don’t pose a threat to your safety. That said, a swarm can often lead to a full-blown infestation, so it’s still important to keep an eye on any pests that swarm on or near your property. 

Common Swarming Pests in Mid-South TN

Dealing with a year-long pest infestation can be a frustrating and costly ordeal, especially when it all begins with a one-day swarm. That’s why it’s essential to take preventive measures to keep swarms from escalating and turning into full-blown infestations. To help you avoid this problem in the Mid-South TN area, it’s crucial to be aware of the common swarming pests that tend to emerge during springtime:

Ants

Roughly 1,000 different ant species throughout the United States begin growing wings and forming swarms in the spring. Most do so to establish new colonies, which is why you don’t want to let them settle into your home or garden. Ants are not usually toxic, but they can be bothersome to find all over the place – especially inside of your kitchen. Here are some tips to help you prevent ants from settling into your space:

  • Keep your counters and floors clean
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers
  • Clean food scraps from your kitchen sink
  • Repair broken pipes or other moisture problems

Termites

Though termites look awfully similar to ants, they’re a much bigger problem for home and business owners. These tiny insects are capable of chewing through crucial wooden structures, which can ruin the stability of your building and lead to thousands of dollars in repairs. Most termites seek damp or damaged wood, which they use for food and nesting. To catch an infestation before it can wreak havoc on your property, look for these warning signs:

  • Long mud tubes along the floor or wall
  • Small holes or tunnels in wood
  • Discarded wings or dead insects
  • Piles of “frass” – similar to sawdust
  • Live insects or swarms on your property

Not sure if it’s a termite or an ant? Look at the wings and antennae; if the wings are all the same size and the antennae are straight, then you’re likely dealing with a termite. If you still aren’t sure what pest is invading your property, get in touch with a professional! Taking care of a termite infestation is a time-sensitive situation, and every minute you wait can cost you. A professional will be able to correctly identify the species and create a personalized plan to eliminate the pests from your space.

Bees

While honeybees and bumblebees are valuable pollinators and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, encountering a swarm of these stinging insects in or around your home can be a frightening experience. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent bees from swarming on your property:

  • Eliminate food sources: Contrary to popular belief, bees don’t just feed on pollen and nectar. They are also drawn to other sugary substances and may circle any food you leave out. Clean up after your picnics or barbeques to deter them from invading your yard.
  • Seal cracks or gaps in your home: A buzzing nest in your attic is the last thing you should have to worry about. Bees typically look for quiet and sheltered areas to nest, which makes easily-accessible homes the perfect environment. Seal any potential openings that lead indoors.
  • Disrupt or remove standing water: Bees need water to survive, and they can sip from tiny puddles. Go around your yard and eliminate any puddles you can find. Look in places like garden pots, playground equipment, wheelbarrows, and gutters. 

If you notice a swarm of bees on or near your property, contact a professional right away. Bees play a crucial role in our local ecosystem, so we strive to protect the insects while keeping them away from your space. 

Wasps

Despite looking so similar to bees, hornets and wasps display very different behaviors. Most are aggressive and capable of stinging multiple times, which makes them a huge threat to small children, pets, and people with allergies. Wasps typically have a more angular body than bees with a thin, pinched waist. They also lack the fuzz that bees are known for, and may have white or orange markings in addition to yellow. To prevent wasps from establishing a colony in your home or yard, follow these tips:

  • Clean up spilled food or crumbs, even in your yard
  • Don’t leave your picnic or barbecue leftovers out
  • Store your trash in tightly lidded bins
  • Keep your pet food bowls clean or indoors
  • Regularly check for the signs of a nest

Should you discover a wasp swarm or nest nearby, do not approach the insects. They can lead to painful stings or potentially dangerous situations, which is why these infestations are always best left to the professionals. Contact an expert right away to have a quick and safe wasp removal process.

Pest Control Experts in Mid-South TN

Notice swarming pests in your home or garden? Call the professional exterminators at Inman-Murphy, Inc.! We understand how disconcerting it can be to encounter a large group of flying insects, which is why we offer fast response times and quick solutions geared toward long-term results. All of our technicians are fully licensed, certified, and well-versed in handling local pest species. Whatever problem you’re facing, our team knows how to come up with a personalized solution that will keep your property pest-free for good. Contact us today for a free quote!

TAP® Insulation: Your Path to a Pest-Free Home

silverfish on wall

There’s a lot you can do to deter pests around your home in the Mid-South TN area. You can de-clutter and properly store your garbage and dry goods. There are some DIY solutions that use essential oils to repel certain pests, or home renovation tactics that use screens or caulk to block others. These all can work to varying degrees, but is that all you can do? What if there was a way to always be killing pests without the need for traps? And what if you can fight pests while also making your home more comfortable and efficient? TAP Insulation makes all of this possible. It’s a form of home insulation beloved by certain pest control companies, and it’s a service we offer for households in Mid-South TN. If you’re ready to step up your pest control strategy with only one simple installation, Inman-Murphy, Inc. is here to help!

TAP® Insulation: A Basic Overview

TAP stands for Thermal, Acoustical, Pest Control insulation. It is made up of loose-fill cellulose that’s blown into the attics of existing home, or in the floors and walls of new builds. What separates TAP from other insulations like fiberglass or spray foam is how it’s been chemically treated with Boric acid. Boric acid is naturally occurring and is commonly used as a cleaning agent or in first aid, but it’s especially unique as being one of the most effective pesticides on the market today. It can kill a variety of bugs – including ants, silverfish and pill bugs – before they grow in numbers enough to truly infest your property.

The pests have easy access to the insulation – that’s how it starts. It coats their bodies, and since a majority of insect pests are surprisingly hygienic, they end up ingesting the boric acid when they groom themselves or each other. These insects are unable to pass the material, so they soon after die of dehydration or malnutrition. And just like that, you’ve solved a threat to the structure of your home with no effort on your part.

What TAP® Pest Control Insulation Can Do for You

Are there other benefits to TAP Insulation aside from its pest-killing properties? Yes, not only is TAP a persistent pesticide to insects as small as Formosan termites to larger cockroaches and beetles, it’s also a very good insulator. It’s made of cellulose, which slows the transfer of heat, keeping you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Your HVAC system will work better with less energy, and you’ll quickly see that reflected in your monthly utility bill.

Inman-Murphy, Inc. for Proper TAP® Insulation

TAP Insulation is not considered toxic for children, adults, or any pets in the household. However, you still need to take the effort to get the material installed by a qualified professional. At Inman-Murphy, Inc., we’ve been treating households in Mid-South TN for pests since 1999. It’s only one of our residential pest control services, all designed to keep your home pest-free on an ongoing basis. We think our friends and neighbors deserve a constant defender that can put a stop to potential pest infestations without you having to lift a finger, and that’s exactly what you’ll get from TAP Insulation. We’ll still be there on the off chance you have an infestation, but when properly involved TAP can greatly reduce the risk. So if you want to work smarter instead of harder Inman-Murphy, Inc. is here to help. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an estimate!

Home Remedies to Repel Mice in Winter

A mouse crawls along a foundation of a home

As winter approaches, temperatures drop and everyone is just looking for ways to stay warm. This is true for local homeowners as well as pests, particularly rodents. Mice can enter your property through cracks or holes that are even just 5 mm wide (that’s less than ¼ inch) surrounding your property. Although they seem cute, mice are dirty, destructive animals that can harm your property and carry disease. 

If you have mice in your home, Inman-Murphy Termite & Pest Control has a group of skilled rodent exterminators who can get rid of your mouse infestation. But if you never developed a rodent problem in the first place, that would be preferable. Here are some methods and tools you can use that may help keep mice away. One word of caution: DIY pest repellents are not as effective as professional rodent control. If you have a rodent infestation, you should contact us for an estimate.

Non-toxic DIY Mouse Repellents

There are several types of simple-to-use DIY mouse repellents. They have the added benefit of being non-toxic. Here are four common strategies for attempting to keep mice away using items you might already have around the house:

Peppermint oil: Mice don’t generally like the strong aroma of peppermint. In order to prevent them from entering, you can put a few drops of the oil on cotton balls, and then scatter them about any potential access sites. Even better, plant mint throughout the perimeter of your property as a mouse-repellent barrier!

Another odor mice detest is that of apple cider vinegar. To preserve the repellent effect, mix it with vinegar and spray it once a month along the perimeter of your home and around potential access points.

Mice are unable to tolerate the scent of fabric softener sheets. Put one of the sheets inside any openings you find that you believe could be entry locations. 

Steel wool: Mice can chew through a variety of materials thanks to their strong incisors. But research has shown that they are unable to bite through steel wool. Therefore, if you use the material to cover potential access points, it will prevent them from entering your home.

How to Keep Mice Out

The likelihood of developing a mouse infestation is strongly influenced by whether or not your home is a desirable environment for rodents. When it’s chilly outside, mice want the same things any mammal does: food, shelter, and warmth. They’ll look for any means to sneak inside and stay there if your home has those attributes. This is why it’s important to start your mouse prevention efforts before it starts to get cold. Let’s look at some techniques you might adopt to deter rodents from entering your home:

  • Check the dark corners of your home’s interior frequently for evidence of mice.
  • Locate every potential point of access into your home and seal or close it
  • Keep food covered, sealed, and stored.
  • Remove clutter from your home, both inside and outside.

Mice won’t want to stay for very long if there isn’t easy access to food or a quiet, dark location to nest. 

When DIY Approaches Fail, Turn to Inman-Murphy

Even if you take all of these precautions, rodents might find their way into your house. If they do, we can help. Since 1999, we have offered rodent extermination services to homes and businesses in the Mid-South TN area. Our rodent pest control technicians are ready to get to work making your home rodent-free. Want to learn more? Get in touch with us today!

DIY Pest Control: 3 Major Risks

DIY pest control - an insecticide fogger spraying in a room

DIY pest control may seem like a good way to save money, time, and unnecessary hassle: You don’t have to choose, pay or wait around for a professional exterminator. You can simply purchase some pesticide products at your local hardware store and you’re ready to go. However, DIY pest control carries significant downsides. If you’re considering this approach, you need to make sure you understand the downsides so you can take steps to mitigate the risks.

What Are the Risks of DIY Pest Control?

Do-it-yourself pest control carries several different risks, including the effects of overusing pesticides, killing beneficial insects, and wasting money on ineffective pest control products. Misuse of pesticides is the most common cause of illness and injury from pest control but you could also be injured by pests themselves, like getting bitten or stung while applying pesticide.

Here are the three categories of major DIY pest control risks: 

Pesticide Exposure

Exposure to pesticides can cause adverse health effects, even when used correctly. Improper use of pesticides may lead to chemicals leaking into water supplies, the soil, and possibly the air inside your home. Many DIY pest control chemicals have the potential to contaminate the ground around your home if not used properly. It’s important to read instructions carefully and use the right amount for the right job. 

For example, pesticides should be kept away from food and water supplies to avoid contaminating or poisoning people. When applying exterior treatments, oftentimes people forget that fish, frogs, and other animals may be living in or around their backyard ponds. If the product is applied too closely to that water source, it can be harmful to all species that are using it. 

Another common example of misapplication in DIY pest control is that homeowners forget to look for open windows while applying products on the exterior of the home, sometimes exposing those inside without realizing it. Pesticides should also be stored out of the reach of children and pets so they don’t come into contact with them. If you’re spraying pesticides inside a home, it’s crucial to ensure there’s adequate ventilation to allow the chemicals to dissipate. 

Health and Safety Issues

There are several potential health and safety issues to be aware of when undertaking do-it-yourself pest control. For example, you should always wear protective clothing and gloves when handling pesticides and other chemicals. Pregnant women and young children should avoid entering areas where pesticides have been used. You should also wear protective equipment like a mask and eye goggles when you are working in areas where there might be pests or rodents. This will reduce the risk of getting bitten, stung or sick. You should also clean up any mess that pests leave behind so they don’t attract more pests. Some pest droppings can contain harmful bacteria or roundworms that can cause serious illness. Proper sanitation of areas should be done carefully and after sufficient research, if you aren’t aware of the possible risks involved. 

Negligence

There are situations where you can be held negligent or liable for your pest control practices. If you spray pesticide in a stuffy room or trap pests in a building without proper safety precautions, you could cause significant harm to other people creating civil and possibly even criminal liability. This is doubly true if you’re trying to eradicate a species of pest that’s protected by law.

Some products require you to vacate the area after application and you need to ensure that no one would come in contact with that product for the proper amount of time. 

Conclusion

While DIY pest control could save you money and time, it also comes with considerable risk. If you’re not careful, you could make things worse by harming yourself or other people with pesticides or getting bitten or stung by the pests you’re trying to eliminate. Professional pest control specialists know how to find the pests on your property, where they are coming from, how they got in, and how to stop them. Plus, they are trained to find the reasons why the pests are there and offer methods of preventing further infestations. 

With the integrated pest management approach, your professional pest technician will also be looking for ways to improve your landscaping and other habitats around the home. This will help lead to less pest activity over time. When factoring all of this in, hiring a professional exterminator is more effective and more efficient than a DIY approach.

Professional Pest Control in the Memphis Metro Area

Inman-Murphy, Inc. has been providing affordable effective pest control services in the Mid-South metro area since 1999. Before you do it yourself, contact us for a free quote!