Some Bugs Don’t Care That It’s Cold

On January 6, 2015 / Blog

Just like that – Winter is here. The temperatures are well below freezing and with the windchill below zero! We just had our first substantial snowfall with more promised in the near future. Spring may seem very far away and not many of us are thinking about the types of bugs that come along with the warm weather. Still, there are some pests that will continue to be a nuisance even during the cold months. The best defense is a good offense. Here are two pests that are a problem no matter what the weather.

BED BUGS – It probably seems that we talk about bed bugs all the time. Well, we do. That’s because it is a real problem and it can affect anyone. The weather really has no bearing on bed bug activity. They will hitchhike on coats and bags and make themselves at home in whatever new spot they are introduced to. If you think you may have been in a place with a bed bug problem, put your clothes, coats, shoes, anything that you can, into a dryer on the highest heat setting for at least a half hour.
ROACHES – Roaches are another insect that doesn’t really care about the weather. They are very sturdy and can make themselves at home just about anywhere. A little water is really all they need since they will eat almost anything. (glue from the back of your wallpaper among other things) This is another pest that is usually brought in, often times on used appliances or furniture. Be very careful when buying second hand. Inspect all areas of your purchase. If there is any doubt – don’t bring it into your home.

JUST FOR FUN

Check out this video – we may not be too happy with the snow but these guys are loving it!

<br />

If you suspect that you have bed bugs or roaches contact Rapid Pest Solutions. We’ve got a solution to fit your needs. Because Timing Is Everything!

Questions?

Happy New Year 2015

On December 31, 2014 / Blog

Well, here we are – New Years Eve. Tonight we will say goodbye to 2014 and usher in the New Year – 2015!

Bottle filling Champagne Glasses for celebrating new years eve 2015 with sparkling lightning numbers isolated on black background as new year greeting card

Happy New Year 2015

Looking at 2015 as the year we are entering feels strange. Futuristic, maybe? I was born in the 70’s and I remember a time when there was no internet. You couldn’t ‘Google’ all your questions and get answers immediately. When asking a question, my father would tell me “Look it up” and then point me in the direction of the Encyclopedia. (all 30-some volumes) Not nearly as easy as today. There was no DVR, no cell phone (at least not for everyday people), no streaming video, Facebook or email. I remember being nervous about Y2K and now here we are 15 years later. Time flies! And although we have many new advances in technology, we haven’t gotten nearly as far as some movies said that we would. Several movies made in the past take place in 2015 and the surrounding years. Parts of Back To The Future II are held in 2015. The Postman, made in 1997, took place in 2013 and Running Man, filmed in the 80’s, is set in 2017. Not that far in the future! What will the next 15 years hold for us? If we judge by the movies set in that time it could be pretty grim. We’re looking at Demolition Man set in 2023, Terminator in 2029 and Planet of the Apes also set in 2029. I’m not sure why filmmakers portray the future as bleak. Except for Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure – that was a pretty positive future – set in 2688.

On a lighter note – we all know that champagne is the most common beverage associated with New Year’s Eve. True champagne is made from grapes that come from the Champagne region of France. If it is made anywhere else it is just sparkling wine. Sorry Korbel! Check out this video for New Year’s Eve champagne facts.

Bottle filling Champagne Glasses for celebrating new years eve 2015 with sparkling lightning numbers isolated on black background as new year greeting card

More than anything, Rapid Pest Solutions wants you to celebrate safely. Don’t drink and drive. If you will be out and about in downtown Chicago take advantage of the CTA’s free trains and buses. They will run from 10p to 4a with extra stops in some areas. If you will be in the NW Indiana area take your celebration to The Quest in Dyer. They offer FREE rides home!

Rapid thanks you for a wonderful 2014 and we look forward to a prosperous 2015. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Even Santa Needs Rapid Pest Solutions

On December 22, 2014 / Blog

Have you ever stopped to wonder what life is like up at the North Pole? Do Santa and the elves have the same day to day experiences we do? My thoughts wandered around this topic and I started thinking what it would be like if the North Pole had pest problems and Santa called Rapid Pest Solutions for help. Here are some of my theories. Enjoy!

Mrs. Claus is baking up a storm. The kitchen is a whirlwind of flour, sugar and cocoa. There are pies, cakes, cookies and fudge of every kind. As she goes to the pantry to retrieve more ingredients she discovers a problem. Pantry Pests, oh no! Mrs. Claus is frantic and calls Rapid Pest Solutions to help. Luckily pantry pests are fairly easy to overcome and Rapid guides her through the necessary steps to make sure her cabinets are clean and free from intruders so that she can get back to baking all of Santa’s favorite goodies.

Bernard the Elf

Santa’s head elf, Bernard, has noticed a problem in the workshop. Many toys are stacked on the shelves waiting to be delivered to all the good children of the world. But as Bernard walked by he noticed what looked like sawdust all around the shelves. Upon further investigation he discovers large black ants among the many toys. Seems like Carpenter Ants and Rapid Pest Solutions is called in to treat the problem. It’s important to get the workshop back in tip-top shape as quickly as possible – the elves are on a schedule!

Santa has gone out to the barn to check on the reindeer and make last minute preparations for his Christmas journey. What he finds is disturbing. All nine of his reindeer are itching. What has caused such a problem and so close to Christmas Eve night? It seems that a batch of hay that was used as bedding, was brought in for the reindeer and it was full of Fleas. Thank goodness Santa knows to call Rapid. We were able to get that hay out of the barn and treat the area so that the reindeer could get some much needed rest before the big night.

Santa is finally home from his deliveries. He and Mrs. Claus are getting snuggled up in bed in the hope of a restful night. Unfortunately, Santa starts to itch. He and Mrs. Claus notice red bumps on their arms and legs. Pulling back the covers and investigating the bedding they discover Bed Bugs. It seems that Santa brought them back from his travels, just like we can when we travel. After putting all the bedding into a hot dryer Santa called Rapid Pest Solutions. We were able to treat his problem and bring peace of mind back to Santa and Mrs. Claus.

If it can happen to Santa, it can happen to anyone. No matter what your pest problem might be Rapid has the solution for you. We have customizable programs and services for everyone. Let us bring the peace of mind back to your home.

RAPID PEST SOLUTIONS WISHES YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Buckingham Fountain Chicago / Winter Lights

12 Safe Driving Tips For Winter Weather

On December 18, 2014 / Blog

Stay Safe While Traveling This Holiday Season And Throughout The Winter.

In the last blog we talked about not bringing uninvited guests back from your holiday travels. (bed bugs, yuck) This time I’d like to talk about safety in the actual travel itself. While some people might be flying to their Christmas destination many of us will be driving and although the weather hasn’t been bad, that can turn on a dime. It is the mid-west after all, we have some of the worst Winter weather in the United States. AAA offers great information on Winter driving safety. I am including a few points below but you can check out the full list of tips HERE.

Tires – Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Never mix radial tires with other tire types.
Gas – Always make sure that your gas tank is at least half full. This will prevent the gas line from freezing.
Cruising – You shouldn’t use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface. Not just in snow and ice but wet or sandy conditions as well.
Click It – Always wear your seat belt. I think that says it all.

Even after the holidays we will still have about 3 months of Winter weather to contend with. There is a very real chance that at some point we will have significant snowfall. I don’t know about you but I do not like driving in the snow. I would much rather hibernate in my warm, cozy home and look at the snow through the window. But if you don’t have the choice of staying in be careful when you’re out there.

If bad weather is expected then make sure that others know where you’re going, the route and estimated arrival time. That way someone knows when to start worrying!
Be sure to have your cell phone with you. FULLY CHARGED – and bring along a car charger just in case.
Keep some blankets as well as extra gloves and hats in the vehicle.
Bring a long some bottled water and snacks. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
If you do break down or become stuck in the snow, stay with your vehicle. That will make it easier to find you and will also provide you with shelter. Don’t walk in a severe storm.
Tie something bright around your antenna or roll something up in a window. This is a signal of distress and it will make you easier to find.
Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked by snow, ice or mud. You don’t want carbon monoxide leaking back into the vehicle.
If you’re stranded for a long period of time you might need more insulation around your body. In this very extreme case you can use newspaper, maps, even floor mats, to provide extra protection from the freezing cold.

Using this information you can navigate safely through the Winter weather. Before you know it we will be back to complaining about the heat and humidity!

Rapid Pest Solutions

Holiday Hitchhikers

On December 15, 2014 / Blog

Don’t let bed bugs ruin your holiday vacation.

Christmas is a major travel time for many. Kids are on break and adults have long weekends. You may be going to visit friends and family or you are the one hosting the out of town guests. Either way it’s important to be aware of ‘Holiday Hitchhikers’. No, these are not people that you have picked up along the way. They are the bed bugs that could very easily be transported from place to place. Hotels are known to have bed bug activity and it’s unfortunate by public transportation such as buses, cabs and airplanes can carry them as well. Be vigilant and follow the steps below to make sure you don’t bring home any unwanted guests from your holiday adventures.

HOTELS

When you arrive in your room put luggage in the bathroom prior to inspecting your surroundings.
Pull back the blankets and check the sheets and pillow cases for blood spots. Be sure to check the piping along the edges of the mattress and box spring for stains and live bugs.
Most hotel headboards are mounted to the wall. Lift up slightly and tilt the headboard away from the wall so that you can see behind it. This is a major hiding spot for bed bugs.
Open the drawers of the bedside table and check inside and the underside of the drawers for hidden bed bugs.
DO NOT unpack into the dresser drawers and don’t leave your suitcase on the floor. Use the luggage rack. Be sure to move the rack away from the wall and and keep your bags closed.
If you do see signs of bed bug activity. Return to the front desk and ask for another room, one that does not share a wall with the room you just inspected.
If you do get a new room, inspect this one too.
Bring plastic bags with you and put your clothing into them before coming home.

HOME

When you return home from your travels take those plastic bags with your clothing directly to the laundry room.
Put everything into the dryer on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Vacuum out your luggage. When possible it is good to either freeze or steam clean your bags as well.
If you have had holiday guests and want to take extra precautions you can do the same thing with the bed linens when you change them. Directly into a high heat dryer.
As a precaution after vacuuming, always empty the bag or canister outside of the home.

If you will be traveling during the holidays, Rapid Pest Solutions sells bed bug inspection travel kits. These kits include everything you need for inspection and collection of a specimen as well as step by step instructions on how and where to look. Stop in to purchase one today.

We know that the holidays can be stressful enough without the added worry of Bed Bugs. If you suspect that bed bugs have managed to hitchhike home with you, give us call. We are here to help.

Learn More

‘Twas The Night Before Christmas…

On December 11, 2014 / Blog

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. OK – It’s more like 2 weeks before Christmas, I guess I got ahead of myself. Take a look at my latest holiday blog.

Christmas is celebrated by many people, both religious and non-religious. No matter which side you come down on I think everyone can agree that this time of year is filled with love, peace, family and giving. The spirit of the holiday can be found all around us. From the twinkling lights and the sweet smells of holiday baking to the giving of gifts and Christmas carols being sung. Let’s look at some of the history behind the holiday and where this celebration originated.

Mid-winter has long been a time for celebrating. Early Europeans celebrated the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and the longest night. The fact that they were able to start looking forward to longer daylight and more sun must have put them in the party mood. This is when the animals were slaughtered for feasts. (that way they didn’t have to feed them through the winter) and also the beer and wine made during the year was finally ready for drinking. Party! This year the return of the sun, aka: Winter Solstice, falls on December 21.

By celebrating Christmas at the same time as the Winter Solstice the church leaders increased the chances that Christmas would be accepted. On Christmas the believers would attend church services and then celebrate at rowdy, drunken festivals. (much like those in the paragraph above) The atmosphere of these celebrations is likened to our Mardi Gras today. Wow! Another interesting tradition during this time period is that the poor would go to the homes of the rich and demand there best liquor and food. If the homeowners didn’t comply then they would be terrorized. Sounds a little like The Purge if you ask me. {shudder}

In 1843 Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol was published. The message of which is the importance of charity and goodwill to all mankind. In 1870 Christmas was made an official federal holiday. Moving forward from this date our traditional Christmas celebration grew. Tree decorating, family get togethers, giving gifts, caroling and more.

PEACE – LOVE – FAMILY – HOPE – FAITH

It’s easy to get caught up in the shopping and stress of the holidays but take a moment to think about what truly matters. This video sums it up pretty perfectly. It only takes a couple of minutes to watch and it leaves you with a feel good message. You can’t beat that!

Rapid Pest Solutions would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas.

Learn More

Holiday Baking? Watch Out For This!

On December 9, 2014 / Blog

KNOW YOUR ENEMY

Before I tell you how to get rid of your pantry pest problem, you should probably know what you’re looking for. The term Pantry Pest encompasses a variety of very small beetles and moths. The biggest of these is only about 5mm in length (that’s about 1/5 of an inch) with the exception of the Indian Meal Moth which is about 9mm in length, still very small.

I look forward to traditional holiday treats each year. What’s your favorite? Is it the cookies, pies and fudge. Maybe you’re more into the fruit cake or bread pudding. No matter your preference, you don’t want to be in the middle of whipping up your favorite recipe and find that your ingredients have been infiltrated by pests! unfortunately this could happen. Pantry pests are a common problem but they are also easily taken care of. Following the simple steps below should take care of any pantry pest problem that you run into and you’ll be back to baking before you know it!

Before you start, check expiration dates on all your baking ingredients and other dry goods. Throw out anything past the date and visually inspect the products. Pantry pests are small but still visible to the naked eye. Items you should check include herbs, spices and seasonings as well as flour, rice, pasta and dried beans. Dry pet food and treats can also become infested.
Empty the cabinets and wipe out the insides with warm soapy water. This will not only clean up any crumbs and spills that feed and attract these pests but will clean out any of the little guys that may be hiding inside.
Using proper storage receptacles is key. Store your pantry items in glass or plastic containers that have tight fitting lids. Not only will you be protecting your food but also helping to keep items fresher for a longer period of time.

If you find that you have some unwanted guests this holiday season (of the insect variety) contact Rapid Pest Solutions. We will inspect, identify and treat the situation so that you can go back to enjoying the holidays with your friends and family.

What Is Your Christmas Tree Hiding?

On December 4, 2014 / Blog

NOT ALL HOLIDAY SURPRISES ARE GOOD ONES

What is your tree hiding? A lucky Christmas Pickle? Maybe your Elf On The Shelf is peering out from the branches? Unfortunately there is the possibility that your tree is hiding something not quite as nice. If you use an artificial tree you’re probably in the clear. But anyone that has a live tree, especially one they cut down themselves, may have some unwanted visitors. Christmas Trees can be home to a variety of pests. These include Bark Beetles, Mites, Praying Mantis, Spiders and more. Keep in mind that these ‘critters’ reside on LIVE trees outside and do not really want to be in your home. Not every live tree will have this little hitchhikers but it’s easy to follow a few quick steps to help ensure your home stays pest free.

Shake It! – Some tree lots may have mechanical tree shakers but if they don’t, just shake it vigorously yourself. This will help dislodge insects that may be making their home there. It will also get rid of loose needles. BONUS!
Check The Branches – Look for any kind of insect egg mass. Especially those of the Praying Mantis. If you find any, simply clip the twig with the nest and leave it on a bush or tree that will be staying outside tamiflu medicine.
Birds Eye View – While a birds nest may look cool tucked in your Christmas Tree, you don’t necessarily want it in your home. Birds can have mites and these mites may still be found in the nesting material after the birds have gone. Remove any nests to be safe.

If by chance a few little unwanted guests do make it into your home, don’t worry. The types of pests that may be in your tree do not want to be in your home. The conditions are not conducive to their life cycle. You can easily vacuum up any stray little guys that you see.

One word of caution: DO NOT USE AEROSOL INSECT SPRAY ON YOUR TREE AS THEY ARE EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!

Please do not let any of this deter you from getting a real tree this Christmas. There is nothing quite like the wonderful smell of pine that you get from having a fresh cut tree in your home.

If you find that you have some unwanted pests in your home contact Rapid Pest Solutions. We can help!

The 12 Days Of Christmas – Rapid Style

On December 1, 2014 / Blog

Today is December 1st and this month all the blogs I write will have a holiday theme. What better way to kick off this special time of year than with the carol The 12 Days Of Christmas. Of course I have modified the original version to fit our specialty – Pest Control. Have a look.

On the 12th day of Christmas, Rapid took care of this for me…

12 Roaches Sneaking
11 Flies A Buzzing
10 Spiders Weaving
9 Skeeters Biting
8 Ants A Crawling
7 Wasps A Stinging
6 Bed Bugs Sleeping
5 Furry Bees
4 Centipedes
3 Earwigs
2 Silverfish
And a mouse in my favorite sock drawer.

Many of us are beginning the process of decorating for Christmas. Putting up trees with shiny decorations, twinkling lights outside, a wreath on the door. This video shows an insects Christmas – Santa Claus decorates a tree for the forest creatures.

<br />

Rapid Pest Solutions wishes you and your families a wonderful and magical holiday season. If you find that you have a pest issue please contact us. We have the treatment option that is right for you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

On November 26, 2014 / Blog

Give Thanks For All You Have

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and many feel this is the kickoff to the holiday season. When thinking of Thanksgiving dinner most people picture a big meal with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, corn and cranberry sauce, maybe a little green bean casserole. Then some pumpkin pie for dessert. Sounds delicious and you can’t go wrong with these classics. But what if you’re looking for something different? Do you want to be known for a having the most quirky Thanksgiving meal? If you’re the more adventurous type and you’re feeling very brave you can try some of the suggestions below. As for myself, I’ll stick with the turkey.

Mealworm Stuffing
Roasted Crickets (tastes like sunflower seeds)
Waxworm Cranberry Sauce
Deep Fried Dragonflies (tastes like soft shell crab)
Chocolate Covered Ants

Many people think that eating insects is actually very good for you. They contain a lot of protein and iron. When adding insects to a recipe you want about 25% to be insects and the other 75% to be made up of traditional ingredients. Any more than this and it could be quite a shock to the taste buds. Also, you want the insects to blend in and add an essence of flavor. Many are considered to have a nutty taste. Chomping on a mouthful of cricket could prove hard to chew because of their exoskeleton.

Maybe Thanksgiving Day isn’t the time to try out your insect cooking skills. For great recipes any time of the year check out one the many handy-dandy cook books available on Amazon.

Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful. For instance, I am grateful that I will not be eating bugs tomorrow. Or any other time if I can help it. What are you thankful for?

I Am Thankful For…

Servicing Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana

Call 219-836-5066 or 708-247-9700

Archive for the Blog Category

Some Bugs Don’t Care That It’s Cold

JUST FOR FUN

Happy New Year 2015

Well, here we are – New Years Eve. Tonight we will say goodbye to 2014 and usher in the New Year – 2015!

Rapid thanks you for a wonderful 2014 and we look forward to a prosperous 2015. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Even Santa Needs Rapid Pest Solutions

If it can happen to Santa, it can happen to anyone. No matter what your pest problem might be Rapid has the solution for you. We have customizable programs and services for everyone. Let us bring the peace of mind back to your home.

RAPID PEST SOLUTIONS WISHES YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

12 Safe Driving Tips For Winter Weather

Stay Safe While Traveling This Holiday Season And Throughout The Winter.

Holiday Hitchhikers

Don’t let bed bugs ruin your holiday vacation.

HOTELS

HOME

‘Twas The Night Before Christmas…

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. OK – It’s more like 2 weeks before Christmas, I guess I got ahead of myself. Take a look at my latest holiday blog.

PEACE – LOVE – FAMILY – HOPE – FAITH

Rapid Pest Solutions would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas.

Holiday Baking? Watch Out For This!

KNOW YOUR ENEMY

What Is Your Christmas Tree Hiding?

NOT ALL HOLIDAY SURPRISES ARE GOOD ONES

The 12 Days Of Christmas – Rapid Style

Today is December 1st and this month all the blogs I write will have a holiday theme. What better way to kick off this special time of year than with the carol The 12 Days Of Christmas. Of course I have modified the original version to fit our specialty – Pest Control. Have a look.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Give Thanks For All You Have

Contact Us

Trusted Business

Helpful Links