It is inevitable that you want to get rid of any pest issue as soon as you spot one. Moreover, some pest control products can be easily obtained off the shelf, allowing for simple and minor pest issues to be resolved. However, carrying out pest control on your own can disrupt pest activities and cause the pest infestation to escalate.
Certain pests including termites, bed bugs and rodents, as well as more complex and larger-scale infestations may require professional pest control services. In this article, Bingo Pest shares 8 reasons why you should leave pest control to the professionals.
Health and Safety Risks
Some pests, such as rodents, termites and cockroaches can pose significant risks when mishandled. Not applying the right techniques to control and get rid of these pests can encourage diseases such as Salmonella to spread. Pest control professionals have the necessary equipment, protective gear, and expertise to handle potentially dangerous situations that may arise from any pest infestations in a safe manner. Furthermore, these specialists are highly trained and possess the knowledge to apply the right treatment methods while minimising health and safety risks to humans, pets and the environment.
Expertise and Knowledge
Did you know that a certified pest control technician undergoes at least 66 hours of classroom training? Pest control professionals are specifically trained and experienced in identifying different types of pests, the species and their behaviour. The knowledge helps them derive the most effective pest control methods to eliminate them. They possess a deep understanding of pest biology, allowing them to establish and employ targeted strategies for an efficient pest control with notable results.
Potential Risk in Handling Chemicals and Pesticides
Pest control professionals are highly trained in pesticide and chemical application techniques to prevent potential health and safety risks to self and the environment. An example of such risk is chemical spillage. It is critical to employ safe and responsible use of chemicals and pesticides by following instructions on the label.
Resistance Against Pesticides
Using the same chemicals and pesticides over and over again causes pests to gain immunity against them. Overtime, pests can develop a resistance or tolerance against chemicals and pesticides, allowing them to survive the exposure, hence reducing the efficacy of the product. Relying solely on one time of active ingredient or mode of action can contribute to the resistance development.
To mitigate the development of pesticide resistance, a professional pest control specialist employs a diverse range of solutions including rotation of pesticides or treatment methods. They acquire the skills and knowledge to adopt an approach and strategy that is more sustainable for long-term pest management.
Lack of Proper Equipment and Tools
Pest control professionals have access to a wide range of specialised tools, equipment, solutions and products that may not be available to the general public. These tools may present a more effective treatment for severe and difficult-to-reach spots as the false ceilings. Moreover, the right tools can help maintain a safe environment during the treatment. For instance, utilising a sprayer with proper nozzles can help to prevent overspray and drift, hence reducing the risk of contamination or unintended exposure to humans and pets.
Having access to the right equipment and tools not only provides a more precise application, but also helps to ensure the safety of the applicator. For example, using the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, goggles and respirators, depending on the nature of treatment, can help protect against potentially hazardous substances and chemicals.
Limited Efficacy
While home products are available readily over the shelf and may be effective for minor pest problems, these products usually have limited efficacy. This is due to several reasons including:
Strength: Home products often contain a lower concentration of active ingredients as compared to professional-grade pest control products. Over-the-shelf products are typically designed for general household use.
Targeted formulation: Home products and chemicals are formulated to target a wide array of pests. Hence, they may be less effective against certain types of pests. On the other hand, pest control professionals possess a wider range of solutions that are used to target specific pests, which allows for a more precise and effective control in pest infestation.
Integrated approach: Pest control professionals may employ a combination of solutions and treatment methods to resolve the pest issue. The integrated pest management approach includes the inspection, treatment, elimination and monitoring aspects to get rid of pests in your property. Home or business owners may not possess the knowledge and the same level of training to conduct these measures by using just over-the-shelf or home pest control products.
It is important to note that the chemicals and solutions used by a pest control professional may be restricted and available only to licensed pest control applicators. Therefore, it is best to leave your pest control to the professionals for more reliable and efficient results.
Not Targeting the Root Source of the Pest Infestation
Most pest control solutions that are available to the public offer a direct elimination of pests. In other words, these chemicals usually kill on contact. However, they do not get rid of the root cause of the infestation. When engaging in activities to eliminate pests, it is important to get to the root course of the infestation. This is because it helps prevent pests from returning by breaking their life cycle and destroying their nests.
While conducting your own pest control may be helpful in certain situations and resolve minor pest problems, unfortunately, they do not offer a long-term solution and protection against a re-infestation. Most often than not, property owners find themselves facing the same pest problem again.
Short-Term Solution With High Chance of Recurrence
Some pests including bed bugs and termites are extremely hard and challenging to eradicate. These pest infestations often require a strategic and comprehensive pest control plan that provides ongoing monitoring efforts. If you address only the visible pests without targeting their source, the problem is more likely to persist, with a high chance of recurrence.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
To encourage an effective food safety management system, the Singapore Food Agency mandates a professional pest control programme in all food-handling businesses. Implementing integrated pest management helps protect your brand image and safeguard your businesses against fines and penalties that may arise from poor pest control practices. Besides, most pest control professionals are knowledgeable about these regulations and can ensure that treatments are conducted in compliance with the requirements and safety standards.
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Engage a Professional For Your Pest Control Needs
It is important to prioritise safety and recognise your own limitations when conducting your own pest control. Seeking professional assistance to achieve long-term protection against pest infestations is necessary, especially for more complex situations and pest problems. Professional pest control services can provide the experience and resources required to target the pest issue.
In summary, professional-grade solutions as well as the expertise and knowledge of trained pest control specialists can ensure more sustainable results to address pest infestations efficiently. Contact Bingo Pest, one of the best pest control companies in Singapore, at 6517 9989 or support@bingopest.sg for a complimentary consultation to discuss your pest control needs.
