Once you’ve arranged a meeting with a professional exterminator, you’ll want to get the problem resolved as quickly as possible. It is paramount to avoid issues that could cause excessive delays. For instance, you need to make sure that your residence is ready for the exterminator.
Usually, a staunch professional will tell you what you need to do before they arrive. Otherwise, you should refer to the information below to ensure that your home is ready.
Speak To The Exterminator
Ultimately, each exterminator is different. Some use unique practices that allow them to work more efficiently. With this in mind, it is generally a good idea to communicate with your exterminator. They’ll be eager to get the job finished as quickly as possible too. They’ll want to make sure that you can return to your home as soon as possible. Therefore, you should speak to them and find out what you should do before they arrive.
The exterminator may give you a list to make things easier. Regardless, don’t be afraid to call their office.
Get Rid Of Clutter
Some homeowners have a cluttered home. They have lots of debris and trash sitting around. This is going to create an issue when it comes to treating the residence. The exterminator needs to be able to move through the residence effortlessly without getting tripped. Another point is that bedbugs are going to hide inside clutter. It is always a good idea to tidy up your residence before the exterminator arrives.
Get rid of trash and other clutter. Doing so will make the treatment easier and it’ll make your home tidier.
Remove Flammable Objects
The required steps will generally depend on the treatment you’ve selected. Some exterminators prefer using heat because it is safe and convenient. The only downside is that excessive heat can damage certain items. Plus, it can be dangerous when exposed to flammable objects. Some flammable items that might be found in your home include linseed oil, aerosol cans, nail polish, nail polish remover, hairspray, rubbing alcohol, and hand sanitizer.
It is pertinent to check every item in your home. Usually, flammable items will feature a warning on the label. Be sure to remove these items from the residence to avoid a potential disaster.
Remove Items That Might Be Damaged
Certain items may be damaged when exposed to extreme temperatures. They might not cause an explosion like flammable objects, but they should still be moved. Otherwise, the items may be destroyed by the exterminator. For instance, you should always take your elections and personal care items. You’ll also want to take blankets, tarps, tents, sheets, and medications.
If you have any precious artworks, it would be a good idea to remove them from the home too. Look through your home to make sure you don’t leave anything vulnerable behind.
Prepare Your Bed
Your bed is one of the most common places bedbugs are going to hide. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure that it gets treated fully. Start by moving the bed to the center of the room. At the very least, it should be six inches away from any wall. Clean around the bed to get rid of any visible bedbugs and eggs. Any items under your bed should be removed so they can be treated as well.
Be sure to inspect everything once the treatment is finished. You’ll likely need to clean the room and mattress before putting the bed back.
Moving Other Furniture
Make sure that you move other furniture as well. Bedbugs can hide behind couches, chairs, sofas, and more. If you don’t move these items, there is a chance that the treatment won’t reach the hidden bugs. Again, it is best to move all furniture at least six inches away from the walls. Just make sure that the exterminator can still move through the home safely. Remove any furniture that could be damaged by extreme temperatures.
Vacuum
It may be a good idea to vacuum your home before moving forward. Vacuuming is a good way to remove bedbugs from the floor, curtains, and other areas throughout the residence. Vacuuming will collect the bedbugs so they can be disposed of. Just remember that you’ll need to deal with the vacuum’s contents. All contents should be placed in a plastic bag. Seal the bag and dispose of it safely.
If your vacuum features a bag, it would be wise to replace it.
Make A Clear Path
Homeowners should also make sure the path is clear. Remember that the exterminator is going to be moving throughout the residence while you’re away. Since you don’t want to run into delays, you don’t want the exterminator to trip and get hurt. Clear a path to ensure that the exterminator can effortlessly walk through the home without getting hurt.
Vacate The Premises
Most pest management processes require an impacted home to be fully vacated before treatment is rendered. All pets and humans must be moved to another location. It is important to note that birds and fish are susceptible to harm if they are inside the home when treatment is rendered.
The exterminator may recommend vacating the home between two and five hours, depending on the treatment. Upon returning to the home, one person will need to go inside and open the windows and doors. The home should be aired out for at least 30 minutes before it is safe to go inside. This is a vital piece of information, so discuss it with the pest management expert in advance.
Proper Food Storage
All food must be moved to a sealed cupboard, refrigerator, or container to prevent contamination. Boxed cereal, rice, pasta, breakfast bars, and other items should be placed in a container with a lid. Bread, spices, candy bowls, and other nonperishable items can be stored in the refrigerator or relocated to an external storage area.
Pesticides contain dangerous toxins that when ingested can cause severe health effects. The effects can range from minor to severe, depending on the type of pesticide and the extent of the contamination.
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