Members’ Value Programs

PCOC’s Members’ Value Program provides members with access to high-quality products and services we use in the Pest Control industry. From discounts on vehicles through fleet management, uniform services, legal services, online traffic school and many others... read more

Most Common Diseases Transmitted by Rats

Rats can be one of the most annoying pests found in or around the home. Not only can they be difficult to eliminate, but they may also be dangerous as many of them carry and transmit diseases. If you notice these pests nearby, you should take action as they may have any of the following sicknesses.

1. Bubonic Plague

Rats are the primary carrier of this terrible disease and will often spread it to humans through fleas. If bitten by a flea infected by the plague, a human could die within days. This sickness can spread to large numbers of people quickly, but usually can be treated with antibiotics.

2. Salmonella

Both rats and mice are frequent carriers of salmonella. This can spread to humans through food that has been contaminated with droppings. If transmitted, salmonella can cause serious illness and sometimes death.

3. Tapeworms

Rats will often be the hosts of small tapeworms that can spread to humans when they consume food that has been contaminated with rat droppings. These parasites will hatch and continue to grow and produce once inside the body.

4. Rat-bite Fever

This disease is usually only spread through bites, but can be transmitted when food or skin wounds are contaminated with rat urine. If left untreated, it can be deadly.

Although these diseases are the most common types that are found in rats, there are many other dangerous illnesses that these pests could be carrying. If these vermin are spotted near the home, take precautions until they have been eliminated. To learn more about pest control in Carlsbad, visit this website.

Tiny Body, Strong Jaws

A trap jaw ant faces the viewer directly in this detailed macro. With the hair covering its body and jaws extending to both sides, it gives the impression of a large predatory insect.

What PCOC does for the industry

Pest Control Operators of California is a non-profit trade association that has served the business and educational needs of pest control operators for over 60 years... read more

3 Tips to Prevent Mosquito Bites

Whether found inside the home or out in nature, mosquitos can easily ruin a day of relaxation or an afternoon hike out in the woods. These insect bites can be painful and irritating, especially to those who experience allergic reactions. Luckily, there are a few ways that mosquito bites can be prevented.

1. Wear repellent

Although it may seem obvious, insect repellent can be very helpful in warding off mosquitos. There are many different kinds of repellant that vary in how long they last and how strong they are. In addition, consider spraying your clothes as well so that you don’t have to use as much on your skin.

2. Burn candles

Because mosquitos do not like smoke, burning a candle or any kind of fire can help keep them away. To make your fire even more effective, add some sage, lemon balm, citronella leaves, or cedar tree bark to further repel unwanted bugs.

3. Remove standing water

Mosquitos are naturally drawn to water, such as puddles, pools, or gutters. Walk around your home and eliminate any standing water that may attract these pests, especially after it rains. In addition, frequently change any water that needs to be kept, such as birdbaths or kiddie pools.

Although mosquitos can be annoying, hopefully after you follow these steps you’ll be able to enjoy a nice summer barbecue without worrying about those pesky insects. For more tips on mosquito control in El Cajon, please visit this website.

Don’t Let the Bedbugs Bite

Once bedbugs have invaded your bedroom, it can be quite a chore to get rid of them. They are small, only active at night, and hide in crevices and cracks, so you have to make a real effort to clean every place they could be hiding... read more

How to Tell if There Are Raccoons in Your Attic

It is quite normal to occasionally spot raccoons around your property. While this is not a problem in itself, the problems begin to arise when these raccoon sightings increase in frequency. When raccoons become comfortable around your property, their behavior becomes quickly emboldened, and they are then highly likely to investigate the inside of your home as well. There are three signs that homeowners commonly discover in the event that a raccoon has taken up residence inside of their home: smell, noise, nesting.

Smell

Raccoons are wild animals and that comes with it’s own aroma. Raccoons, like many other animals, try to mark their territory with urine as a sign to other creatures. If you detect a scent in your attic that doesn’t quite seem right, you are probably onto something. Hopefully you are able to get rid of the creature before it dies, because that smell is far worse.

Noise

Homeowners who have had raccoon problems report that they could hear scratching and tapping coming from the attic. Try to listen carefully for any sort of movement, especially in the late evenings.

Nesting

If you are feeling brave, investigate the insulation in your attic. If you observe chunks being taken out, then you can assume that you have a critter nesting inside your home. Do this with caution though, as frightened and territorial animals will often attack.

If you have observed these signs and need raccoon relocation in Raleigh, visit this website for more information.