World Pest Day, which takes place on June 6 each year, is an observance dedicated to recognizing and raising awareness for the role the pest control industry plays in protecting public health, food and property from the threats posed by pests. Pest control is such a vital element of our society that public health officials attribute it as one of three reasons for the heightened quality of life we have today.

As we enter peak pest season, it’s so important for Americans to be aware of the threats these species pose to not only our homes but out health. Pest control professionals are dedicated to helping the public protect what matters most to them and World Pest Day is just a reminder of the important work they do day in and day out. Today and everyday, we encourage homeowners to contact a professional if they suspect a pest problem. DIY won’t cut it when it comes to the health and safety of your family.

In recognition of World Pest Day, Web-Cote is joining the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) in calling attention to pests that pose the biggest threat to health and property:

• Ticks: These pest populations thrive in warm, humid climates so summer is peak season for encounters with ticks. They can transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever to humans making it extremely important to perform regular tick checks on yourself and your pests after spending time outdoors. To keep your property tick-free, be sure to keep the grass cut low, clear any overgrown vegetation, and remove weeds, woodpiles and debris.
• Mosquitoes: Believe it or not, mosquitoes are considered the world’s deadliest animal as they are known to spread diseases such as Malaria, West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and Dengue Fever to humans and animals. Eliminating sources of standing water around the home, including birdbaths, flowerpots and clogged gutters is the best course of action to reduce mosquito populations and the risk of mosquito borne disease.
• Stinging Insects: Every year, pests like hornets, wasps and yellowjackets send more than half a million people to the emergency room as they’re capable of inflicting painful stings that can trigger severe reactions in those with allergies. These insects often build their nests in properties in areas like attics, crawlspaces, gutters and under awnings or decks. If you find a nest on your property, do not attempt to remove it on your own as stinging insects will attack if they feel threatened or are disturbed.
• Rodents: Pests like mice and rats, are known to contaminate or consume about 20% of the world’s food supply and are capable of spreading 35 different diseases including hantavirus, Salmonella, tularemia, rat bite fever and plague. Once inside your home or business, these pests multiply rapidly and can cause serious damage making prevention measures like sealing openings on the outside of your home and reducing food sources are extremely important.
• Termites: Known as one of the costliest pests, termites cause an estimated $6.8 billion in property damage every year, according to NPMA and unfortunately, this costly damage is not covered by most homeowners insurance policies. Termite populations thrive in warm, moist conditions, but are found throughout the U.S. Termite infestations cannot treated using DIY measures so homeowners should schedule annual inspections with their pest control partner to protect their home from these wood destroying pests.

Please visit www.PestWorld.org for additional pest-proofing tips and information on pest control including a directory to help you find a local pest control professional.