3 Things You Don’t Want To Bring Home

3 Things You Don’t Want To Bring Home

Ladies, if you’re anything like me your purse is like your lifeline. It’s always with you and holds anything and everything you, your partner, your child or your friends might need. It’s not just about carrying your drivers license, credit cards and keys. We’re talking tissues, band aids, lip balm, nail clippers, gum, paper, pens, lotion, aspirin, a mirror, loose change, dental floss, a lighter…I mean, really, the list is endless. MacGyver would have no problem escaping from the bad guy if he had access to a woman’s purse. All the things he would need are inside!

Macgyver

Because our purses go with us everywhere and then we bring them back into our cars and homes, I am going to point out some things to watch out for. You’re probably asking yourself, ‘What are these scary things she’s talking about?’. Roaches and Mice, to begin with. These can end up in your purse, book bag, or briefcase if you aren’t careful. Picture this, you are at the movies ready to enjoy the newest thriller. You’ve got your popcorn, pop and candy and you find your way to a comfy middle seat. You set your bag on the floor in front of you, lean back, relax and enjoy the show. Now remember that many, many people prior to you have done the same thing. The floor is covered in the sugary, stickiness of spilled soda, there are dropped pieces of popcorn and candy everywhere. Sure the theater is swept up between shows but I’m willing to bet that not every crumb is picked up. This is a paradise for roaches and mice. Theaters are dark places and it’s hard to see what might be lurking in the corners. It is entirely possible that a mouse or a roach could find their way into your bag as they forage the floor for food. The same thing goes for restaurants and public transportation. Your best bet is to keep your bags either on your lap or over the back of a chair.

dirty-movie-theater

The third scary thing that could come home with you is Bed Bugs. Many people think that this only applies to people that travel a lot or college kids coming home from school. The truth is anyone, anywhere can pick up Bed Bugs and bring them into their home. A few places that Bed Bugs can and have been found include, movie theaters, public transportation, schools, restaurants, the gym and of course hotels and airplanes. Do not live in fear! It may sound like I’m telling you the only safe thing to do is stay locked up at home, but that’s not the case. You just have to be careful and be vigilant. Give a visual inspection in any areas that you can. Your hotel room can be checked before you settle in. Take a look inside your locker at the gym before you put your bag in, at a restaurant a once over of your seat is an easy thing to do. In a situation where you cannot give a visual inspection or where you feel unsure, there are still precautions you can take. When you get home, put your clothing into the dryer on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. This will take care of anything that may have made its way into a pocket or cuff. Leave bags outside the home until you have the opportunity to thoroughly inspect them for sneaky pests.

Bed Bugs on a public bus.

Bed Bugs on a public bus.

Be aware of your surroundings and watch your bags. If you find that some unwanted intruders made it home with you, don’t panic. Call Rapid Pest Solutions. We have the answer to all your pest problems.

Because Timing Is Everything!

4 Spring Cleaning Tips To Keep Bugs Away

4 Spring Cleaning Tips To Keep Bugs Away

The weather is changing and Spring is in the air. This is the time for a fresh, clean start. Many people will be ticking items off their Spring Cleaning lists and this is a great time to take some steps to keep the bugs away from your home. Below are four areas that you should not skip when clearing out your home.

1. KITCHEN – The number one pest we deal with in our area is ants and the kitchen is probably their favorite spot in your home. While everyday you may be wiping the counters and sweeping the floor – it is important to clean out some other areas too. Sweep behind your appliances. You would be surprised how much dirt and crumbs collect back there! Also, clean out your pantry. Remove everything and throw away old and out-dated spices and dry goods. Before putting items back, wipe down the shelves with warm water and a bit of detergent. This will go a long way to keeping out ants as well as other pantry pests, moths and beetles.

2. BATHROOM – One thing that all insects and pests need is water. Make sure that you’re not providing them with an oasis in the desert. When cleaning the bathroom do a quick check around the toilet and tub and under the sink to make sure there are no leaks or other moisture that may attract unwanted visitors.

Spring-Cleaning

3. BASEMENT – The basement is a great place for creepy-crawlies to hide, including spiders, mice and centipedes. This is because many basements have dark corners and plenty of hiding places. Go through any clutter and throw away what’s not needed. If you do keep things stored in your basement don’t use cardboard boxes. Invest in some plastic tubs with lids that fit securely. Also, do a quick perimeter check keeping in mind that mice can fit through a hole the size of a dime and insects only need the tiniest crack. Use caulk and steel wool to seal these areas.

4. OUTSIDE – Take a look around the outside of your home. Does anything need to be repaired? Fix ripped screens, clean out gutters and make sure there aren’t any areas around your yard that can collect standing water. Also, make sure that bushes are trimmed back from the siding of the home and don’t store cut wood against the house.

Following this four simple steps will go a long way in protecting your home from unwanted pests. If you do find that you have an issue with insects or rodents, give Rapid Pest Solutions a call. We have individual programs to fit your needs.

HAPPY SPRING!

Spring

St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner. The Chicago River has been dyed green, the grocery stores are stocked up on corned beef and cabbage and your friendly neighborhood bar is probably advertising green beer. They say on St. Patrick’s Day everyone is Irish. I guess no one wants to miss out on the celebrating and the fun.

In keeping with the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, Rapid Pest Solutions has gathered some pictures – <a href="https://en.wikipedia click here to find out more.org/wiki/Green” target=”_blank”>GREEN is the theme!
Emerald+Ash+Borer+Beetle.jpgEmerald+Ash+Borer+BeetlePraying+Mantis.jpgPraying+Mantis

The Praying Mantis is one of my favorite insects. I think they look like little aliens!

Green+Stink+Bug.jpgGreen+Stink+BugCaterpillar.jpgCaterpillarGrasshopper.jpgGrasshopper

St. Patrick’s Day wouldn’t be complete without Leprechauns. I never pictured them as cute, nice guys like on the box of Lucky Charms. I think they are more like this guy…Leprechaun

HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

lucky charms They’re magically delicious!

6 Facts About Zika Virus

6 Facts About Zika Virus

It seems that everyone is talking about the Zika virus. Yes, this is another virus that is spread by mosquitoes and can cause illness and other issues for those that are infected. It sounds scary and with the way it is all over the news, it probably seems as if you will get Zika with your very first mosquito bite of the season. I’m going to go over some of the basic facts about Zika in the hopes of giving you some piece of mind. Because as we all know – Knowledge Is Power!

The-Battle

1. HOW DO YOU GET IT? – Zika is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito
2. WHERE DID IT COME FROM? – Confirmed to cause human disease in 1968 it was mainly found in Africa, India and Southeast Asia. More recently it has spread and there have now been confirmed cases in Indiana, Illinois, Florida, Texas and New York. However, those infected got the disease while traveling to infected countries.
3. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? – In most cases there are no symptoms. In those that do develop symptoms you will have several days of mild headache, fever, rash and joint pain.
4. IS THERE A TREATMENT? – At this time there is no treatment or vaccine. If you are infected and have symptoms you should get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and take acetaminophen for any pain.
5. WHAT ABOUT BIRTH DEFECTS? – Little is known this time about the possibility of birth defects caused by Zika. It is thought that if a mother is infected near the time of delivery she can pass on the virus to her newborn, but this is rare.
6. HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF AND MY FAMILY? – Use an effective insect repellent with a minimum of 20% DEET. If you will be outside for a long period of time, wear lightweight loose fitting clothing with long pants and long sleeves.

Mosquito

The type of mosquito that carries the Zika virus is a daytime biter. Be sure to take EXTRA precautions during the day. Also, help combat the mosquito population around your yard. Remove any standing water and keep windows and doors screened.

If you find that you are unable to spend time in your yard this summer because mosquitoes are biting, call Rapid Pest Solutions. We have a Mosquito Reduction Program that will let you TAKE YOUR YARD BACK! Contact us for details!

6 BUGS TOO APPEALING TO KILL

6 BUGS TOO APPEALING TO KILL

Not All Bugs Should Be Exterminated

Not all bugs are ‘pests‘. There are some that are cute, some that bring back good memories and some that are just downright cool. Today I am going to talk about some of these guys and help us remember that not all bugs should instill fear, loathing and the desire to get rid of them.

Pill+Bug.jpgPill+Bug Pill Bug

THE PILL BUG – Also known as a Rollie Pollie this small bug has an exoskeleton that allows them to roll into a ball when frightened. They are actually a type of crustacean and they breathe through gills. (who knew!) Pill Bugs like moist, dark areas and can be found under logs and rocks. I think these guys are pretty cute and resemble a miniature armadillo.


Stick+Bug.jpgStick+Bug Stick Bug

THE STICK BUG – Stick Bugs are also called Walking Stick Bugs. They get their name because they look just like a stick or twig off a branch. Stick Bugs aren’t really considered harmful unless threatened. At that time they may release a spray that can cause itching and burning. The Stick Bug is a herbivore and their appearance allows them to blend into the plant they are feeding on. Some people keep stick bugs as pets.


Lady Bugs are good luck you know!

Lady Bugs are good luck you know!

Ladybug

THE LADYBUG – The Ladybug makes me think of making wishes. It is said that if a Ladybug landed on you then you could make a wish and it would come true. Ladybugs can come in a variety of colors including yellow, orange and a beautiful bright red. Sometimes considered the farmers helper, the Ladybug feeds on plant eating insects. Ladybugs are not aggressive to humans and the next time you see one, I encourage you to make a wish.


Butterflies.jpgButterflies Colorful Butterflies

THE BUTTERFLY – Some of the prettiest insects you’ll see, Butterflies flit and flutter around displaying their brightly colored wings. Butterflies go through an amazing metamorphosis from caterpillar to Butterfly. You can watch this process by getting a Butterfly Garden. Because they can only fly if their body temperature is above 86 degrees, they can be found sunning themselves during cooler weather. Ever heard of Butterfly Kisses? They are sweet ‘kisses’ given by fluttering your eyelashes on a loved ones cheek.


Front yard, Bernardsville, NJ

Front yard, Bernardsville, NJ

Lightning Bug / Firefly

THE LIGHTNING BUG – Sometimes called Fireflies, these bugs definitely remind me of my childhood. Many warm summer evenings were spent with the neighborhood kids chasing these beautiful lights to put into jars or coffee cans. Lightning Bugs actually use their flash to talk to each other. They are nocturnal and prefer warm damp areas, hence the humid summer nights. I saw a lot of these in my yard this summer and it immediately brought back memories of being a kid.

Fireflies+in+a+Jar.jpgFireflies+in+a+Jar Fireflies in a jar


Praying+Mantis.jpgPraying+Mantis Praying Mantis

THE PRAYING MANTIS – The Praying Mantis is just all around cool. From the way it looks (alien like eyes) to the way it mates (the female sometimes killing the male) to the way it moves (can turn it’s head a full 180 degrees) it is a beautiful, complex insect. Some people will keep them as pets. They eat small bugs and worms and are not generally aggressive to humans. If handled carelessly they will bite – and it can hurt. But all in all, I think the Praying Mantis is beautiful and I love to watch them. Sometimes it seems like they are really looking you right in the eye!

I think we can agree that not all bugs need to be exterminated. If one of the bugs on this list was to get into your home, I understand that you would most likely want it out. But I think that in this situation it could be caught and let outside to carry on with its business.

Is there a bug that you think should have made this list but didn’t? Let me know. I would be happy to write about your suggestions. If you have a pest problem that requires an exterminator, let Rapid Pest Solutions take care of it for you.

Looking For An Exotic Pet?

Looking For An Exotic Pet?

The Perfect Low Maintenance Exotic Pet

Are you looking for a new pet? Don’t want the typical dog or cat? Then I have an exotic pet for you! Low maintenance and quiet, this pet is perfect for a house or apartment.

Meet the Giant Madagascar Hissing Cockroach!!! Now before you say “No!” and run screaming, let me explain.

Giant+Madagascar+Hissing+Cockroach.jpgGiant+Madagascar+Hissing+Cockroach Giant Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

Here are 5 reasons why the Giant Madagascar Hissing Cockroach is an easy to care for pet.

  • Depending on how many of these little darlings you choose to have they can be kept in a small aquarium. If you have several, you may want to use a 10 – 15 gallon tank. Use wood shavings in the bottom and be sure to give your roach some hiding places. These can be the roll from toilet paper, a piece of wood or a small cardboard box.
  • The Hissing Cockroach is a tropical species. You will want to keep the inside of their home moist and between 75 – 90 degrees. This will create a warm, humid environment.
  • Feeding a Hissing Cockroach is easy. They will eat dry dog food, which provides needed protein. You can also feed them fruits and vegetables. It is said that they love carrots. Just be sure to remove any uneaten food before it has a chance to spoil.
  • Water can be kept in a shallow dish with some cotton or a sponge. The little Hissers will suck the water from the wet material. Don’t keep a deep dish of water, we don’t our exotic pet to drown!
  • The Hissing Cockroach is harmless and docile. They do not bite or sting. They don’t care to run very quickly and they don’t fly, so there is little chance they will get away. (be sure to keep mesh over the top of their habitat)
  • The Hissing Cockroach is easy to handle. You can hold and pet them. Many owners let their sweet pet crawl on their arms and hands.

Hissing+Cockroach.jpgHissing+Cockroach Hissing Cockroach Crawling On Brave Person

How many of you are going to run out and get a Giant Hissing Cockroach? If this seems like a bit more than you can handle, maybe you should start with something a little less intimidating. I personally like a nice Ant Farm. They are self contained and no touching is necessary. What exotic pet would you like to have? Rapid Pest Solutions wants to hear from you!

4 Pests That You Should NOT Ignore

4 Pests That You Should NOT Ignore

Seeing one or two of these pests is most likely just the tip of the iceberg!

Don’t mistake a small sign as something insignificant. Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean a larger problem doesn’t exist. Pest problems and infestations can occur behind the scenes. When you see one or two bugs that is very often just the tip of the iceberg! Once the problem becomes noticeable it is often already past the point of taking care of it yourself.

Tip+of+the+Iceberg.jpgTip+of+the+Iceberg Tip of the Iceberg

There are four pests that you need to take very seriously if you see them or have evidence of them. They are mice, ants, roaches and bed bugs. Let’s take a look at them individually.

Mice.jpgMice Mouse Infestation

MICE – If you see a mouse in your home or see droppings, it is very doubtful that you have just the one. Mice reproduce very quickly with a gestation period of only 19 to 21 days. Female mice reach sexual maturity at 6 weeks old and can have 5 to 10 litters a year. They will want to hide from you and will scurry out at night to forage for food. Seeing droppings means trouble.

Swarming+Ant.jpgSwarming+Ant Swarming Ant

ANTS – Ants live in colonies, so while there is a chance that a stray ant could wander into your home, it is more likely that you have a nest nearby. If an ant finds a food source in your house you can be assured they are going to bring all their friends to the party. Also, if you see swarmer ants, the flying ones, look out! Swarming ants only go out once a colony has reached its full size, which happens to be in the thousands! Seeing those flying ants most likely means that you have a full-size colony somewhere on your property or in your home.

Roaches+in+a+Door+Frame.jpgRoaches+in+a+Door+Frame Roaches

ROACHES – The German Cockroach is the most common roach found in U.S. homes. They are nocturnal and will come out at night to forage for food. During the day they like dark, humid, small places. They like pressure on all sides of their body. If you see a roach out in the middle of the day you need to be worried. Especially if they are in a room other than the kitchen. The main reason for roaches to be out in the middle of a room, during the day is because the infestation is so heavy that there are no suitable hiding spaces.

Bedbugs and their feces (the little black dots) on a mattress.

Bedbugs and their feces (the little black dots) on a mattress.

Bed Bug Infestation on a Mattress

BED BUGS – Bed Bugs are another type of pest that likes to hide and likes pressure on all sides. They will look for hiding spaces in and around areas where they have a food source. This means they are not limited to being in just the bed. They can and will hide in the headboard, dressers, closets, baseboards, outlets, behind pictures and more. If you have a bed bug infestation you may also find them in other living areas. Couches, love seats, recliners and other upholstered furniture. If you bring a bed bug home with you it can take only 2 to 3 months for the problem to be in the hundreds. Without treatment your bed bug populations could be in the thousands by 6 months.

If you see signs of any of these pests contact Rapid Pest Solutions today. We will do a full inspection and offer treatment options for your peace of mind. We can also help with any other pest problems or questions you may have. Let us know how Rapid can help you!

DO YOU HAVE A CASE OF THE MONDAY’S?

DO YOU HAVE A CASE OF THE MONDAY’S?

TIRED – UNMOTIVATED – LOOKING FOR A PICK ME UP?

Sometimes coming back to work after a weekend can be extremely difficult. It’s just hard to get in the swing of things and find your motivation. I feel your pain and I am here to help! This particular blog will give you a little Monday afternoon pick-me-up. I have compiled some cool YouTube videos for your enjoyment. Check them out!

This video show bees that are ‘bearding’. When the hive is too hot the bees will congregate on the outside. They hang onto each other and form what looks like a beard of bees.


Baby mice make noises when they feel happy or content. Some of these noises may sound like purring, although they can also sound like, chirping or clicking. I know that mice can cause a lot of problems if your home becomes infested, but they sure are cute!


Ants are super strong and can carry 10 – 50 times their body weight. This video shows several ants working as a team to carry a piece of popcorn. Although at first it seems like they can’t work together, in the end they zip away with their prize!


This ladybug is playing with some candy sprinkles! OK – maybe not playing with them, trying to eat them may be more accurate. But either way it’s cute and fun to watch.


And of course, no compilation of YouTube videos would be complete without the ‘Cute Dog’ video. This super cute puppy discovered a bug and decided it wanted to play. The bug probably isn’t very happy but the dog is adorable!

Hopefully I was able to give you a small diversion from your Monday afternoon. Rapid Pest Solutions has also added another video to it’s own YouTube page. Take a look!

We are here for all your pest control needs – Let us know how we can help you.

4 Superstars I Want On My Pest Control Team

4 Superstars I Want On My Pest Control Team

WHO WOULD YOU WANT ON YOUR TEAM?

I have spent quite a bit of time explaining different types of insects, their habits, and how you can protect yourself from them. I thought that maybe it was time to take a break from being so serious and instead, post a blog for entertainment purposes only. Let’s take a look at the four superstars (both real and fictitious) that I would love to have to work on my pest control team.

#1 – IRON MAN

Robert+Downey+Jr+as+Iron+Man.jpgRobert+Downey+Jr+as+Iron+Man Iron Man

Besides the fun that would surely come from working with a billionaire, Tony Stark is known for his business ethics and he is very well respected. With a genius expertise in Chemistry, I am sure that he could come up with some very effective pesticides. He is also known for being environmentally responsible, therefore his aforementioned pesticides would be safe for humans and the environment.

#2 – JOAKIM NOAH

Joakim+Noah.jpgJoakim+Noah Joakim Noah

Noah is known for his high-energy play. This would make him an excellent partner in this business, which tends to be go, go, go! He has an unorthodox shooting style – perhaps he could bring an unorthodox approach to pest control. It could prove to be just as successful as his basketball career has been.

#3 – THE JOKER

The+Joker.jpgThe+Joker Joker – Nicholson / Ledger

Somewhat of a prankster, The Joker could bring some levity to the office environment. He is known as having no fear, which can come in handy in some situations. (we all know how afraid I am of bugs!) Another great reason to have The Joker on my pest control team is that he has been a consumer of his own chemical experiments for a long time. This has left him immune to most poisons. No worries when doing a pest control treatment!

#4 – CHUCK NORRIS

Chuck+Norris.jpgChuck+Norris Chuck Norris

I really don’t need to explain this one, but I will. A true American hero – Chuck Norris served in the U.S. Air Force and he is well trained in martial arts. Neither one of these things necessarily make him good at pest control, but I think the bugs would just leave rather than have to deal with Chuck Norris.

  • People tell their children, ‘night, night, don’t let the bed bugs bite’ – but bed bugs tell their kids, ‘Night, night, don’t let Chuck Norris bite.’

So tell me who are your favorites? Is there a superstar that isn’t on my list and you think they would be a great fit? Let me know! I would love to hear from you. While Rapid Pest Solutions is not lucky enough to have these awesome people on our team, we do have some awesome people of our own. Let us know how we can help you with your pest control issues.

Can I Get Sick From A Mosquito Bite?

Can I Get Sick From A Mosquito Bite?

Diseases Transmitted By Insects

Tyvek+Suit.jpgTyvek+Suit Tyvek Safety Wear

Most of you know that there is a slight chance of getting sick from a mosquito bite. I think everyone is somewhat familiar with the West Nile Virus. The thing is, that isn’t the only vector borne disease you need to be aware of. There are others and new ones are being introduced to the U.S. all the time. Now this does not mean that everyone should walk around in a panic wearing a Tyvek Suit! It just means be aware.

Mosquitoes and ticks are the most likely to transmit disease in this area. Below are a few of the diseases they carry as well as ways to protect yourself.

MOSQUITOES

WEST NILE AND CHIKUNGUNYA VIRUSES

West Nile is spread by mosquitoes that have been infected by biting a bird with the virus. If you are bitten by a mosquito that is infected you may show signs 3 – 15 days after being bitten. Most people that get infected show no symptoms or very mild ones. Severe forms of the disease may include swelling of the brain, neck stiffness, muscle weakness and confusion. Only a doctor can tell you if you have the disease. There is no treatment for West Nile Virus but there is care that can be given to those with a severe illness.

Chikungunya is new to the United States. It is spread by mosquitoes that have bitten an infected person and then biting someone else. Once bitten by an infected mosquito you may see symptoms within 1 – 12 days. Those most at risk are people that travel to areas where the virus is found. This includes the Caribbean and South America. However, there have been cases of Chikungunya found in the United States this year. Most people that contract the virus will show symptoms. These include a fever of 102 degrees or higher and pain in the joints. You may also experience headache, nausea and vomiting. Only a doctor can tell you if you have Chikungunya or not. There is no specific treatment and there is no vaccine. Medicine can be given to help with the fever and joint pain.

TICKS

LYME DISEASE

Female+Deer+Tick.jpgFemale+Deer+Tick Adult Female Deer Tick

Lyme Disease is carried and transmitted by ticks. The black-legged tick (or deer tick) to be exact. Ticks like damp, shady, leafy areas. They can be found in forests and heavily landscaped yards. A tick can attach to any part of the body but are often found in hard to see areas, such as the groin, armpit and scalp. In most instances a tick would have to be attached for a minimum of 36 hours before the Lyme Disease would be transmitted. Symptoms of Lyme Disease include a bulls-eye rash at the site of the bite. You may also have fever, headache, chills, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes. The longer the disease goes untreated, the worse the symptoms become. Things like facial palsy, meningitis, heart palpitations and arthritis can occur. Lyme Disease is treatable with antibiotics. However, 10 – 20% of patients that have Lyme Disease will continue to experience symptoms for months and even years after treatment.

Blacklegged+Tick.jpgBlacklegged+Tick Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick)

PREVENTION

Keeping yourself and your family safe from these illnesses may seem like a daunting task. But there are a few simple things that you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

  • Stay inside during peak mosquito times. (dusk to dawn)
  • Use a bug spray containing DEET.
  • Wear light colored, loose fitting pants and shirts with long sleeves.
  • Keep grass cut and shrubs trimmed.
  • Clean clogged roof gutters.
  • Get rid of standing water.