(nem Leaving Pest Control To The Professionals (NAPSA)—Whenpeople buy a home, they’re wise to draw the line between jobs they can do themselves and those betterleft to the professional. For example, the average do-it-yourselfer might feel skilled enough to freshen up the paint in a bedroom or install a ceiling fan, but should know only an electrician has the skills to safely rewire the house and a plumber should be called when the drain won't unclog. Pest control is one of the jobs better left to professionals. Most homeowners simply aren’t equipped to properly identify and treat pests in the mostefficient, least invasive manner. Rather, do-it-yourself treatments tend to be of the trialand-error variety, which can be costly and time consuming, not to mention dangerous when treatments are overused, mixed or used improperly. That’s where professional pest control operators step in. Pest con- trol companies can help to rid homesof infestations and help prevent future problems. Pest professionals have specialized training in pest biology and behavior that enables them to identify and responsibly treat pest problems before they get out of control. Using a process called Integrated Pest Management, a pest control opera- tor inspects the home, monitoring both the pests and the conditions that invited the problem and allow the pest to exist. With this information at hand, the technician is able to precisely target the pests to control the infestation and attempt to keep the pests from returning. “While there are steps you can take to minimize pest threats in and around your home, there are limits to what you can accomplish on your own,” said Cindy Mannes, Pest Prevention Tips: e Fix andsealleaky faucets. Pests needa water source fo survive. Store leftovers in wrapped or sealed containers. Wipe the outside of storage containers fo remove any sweetor sticky foodresidue. Vacuumfloors regularly and clean crumbsfrom countertops, tables and other surfaces. Washdishes immediately after eating. Keepall trash cans covered. Empty them frequently. Call in a professional to consult about and treat existing pests. Source: National Pest ManagementAssociation @ vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), a nonprofit organization comprised of pest control companies. “To treat pests correctly the first time, it’s best to call a professional.” NPMAoffers these pest prevention tips: Fix and seal any leaky fau- cets. Pests need a water source to survive. Keep food in tightly sealed containers. * Clean food crumbs from countertops and vacuum floors regularly. Wash dishes immediately after eating. Empty garbage frequently and consider using trash cans with lids in the home. * Call in a professional to consult about and treat existing pests. To locate a professional pest control company, visit NPMA’s Website at www.pestworld.org.
