If you’re a homeowner in Alberta, Canada, you may want to be extra vigilant about keeping your home clean and free of food scraps. Why? Because cockroach infestations are on the rise in the province.
Alberta has seen a significant increase in cockroach infestations over the past few years. In fact, it’s now the second most common type of pest problem reported by homeowners in the province, behind only ants.
Keep cockroaches out of your home
Cockroaches are not only unpleasant, but they can also be harmful to your health. These pests can trigger asthma and allergy attacks, and they’ve even been linked to a number of different diseases. So it’s important to do everything you can to prevent an infestation in your home.
What Attracts Cockroaches?
Cockroaches are attracted to three things: food, water, and shelter. Any one of these things can attract cockroaches to your home.
Food:
Cockroaches are scavengers and will eat just about anything. They’re especially fond of starchy foods, sweets, meat, and cheese. To prevent attracting cockroaches, be sure to keep all food—including pet food—in airtight containers and clean up any spills immediately. You should also empty your trash cans regularly and sweep/vacuum your floors often.
Water:
Cockroaches need water to survive, so they’re drawn to damp areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. To prevent attracting cockroaches, fix any leaks in your plumbing and don’t leave puddles of water on the floor after bathing or cooking. You should also empty out your gutters and drain any standing water that’s collecting there.
Shelter:
Cockroaches like dark places where they can hide during the day—places like crevices in cabinets or behind appliances. They also like cluttered areas where there are lots of nooks and crannies for them to explore. To prevent attracting cockroaches, declutter your home and seal up any cracks or openings where they could potentially come inside.
Cockroach infestations are on the rise in Alberta—but that doesn’t mean you have to live in fear of these pests taking over your home. By taking some simple precautions, you can make your home uninviting for cockroaches and help keep these pests at bay. If you do find yourself with a cockroach infestation, contact a pest control professional to get rid of the problem for good.