(NAPSA)—Imaginea large, un- wanted dog roaming under and through your house. That is an image one Univer- sity of Florida scientist uses to describe the size of certain termite colonies. “A Formosan termite colony can grow to 10 million termites,” said Faith Oi, assistant extension scientist at the University of Florida. “The colony’s weight is about 80 pounds, which is about the weight of a large dog.” Every year there are at least 600,000 new infestations of ter- mites, causing $1 billion in property damage—morethan the damage caused byfire and storms. In fact, your home may be at greater risk from termite infestation than from a housefire. About 365,000 homes will require fire department services this year, while more than two million homes will need termite help. Is your home safe? Few homeowners recognize the risk they face. “The biggest problem with termites is that the insects remain hidden when they do their damage,” said Oi. Even if homeowners suspect an infestation, they are not prepared to tackle a problem this immense, and the smartest moveis to hire a professional. Trained pest professionals know about the latest and mosteffective Nan-Yao Su/University of Florida The termites pictured above can be effectively treated with someof the newer products,like Subterfuge termite bait. treatments, such as Subterfuge termite bait. Unlike other baits, Subterfuge is active beginning from day one, and can begin killing termites the day it is installed. And, because termites love the taste, they are quick to bring other termites to the Subterfuge and spread it through the colony, which helps wipe out the entire infestation. Other bait stations only detect termite activity when first installed. That can allow termites to continue feasting on your home for months before an active bait is ever used. For more information on pro- tecting your home from termites or about Subterfuge, consult a pest control professional. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN ALASKA.
