Hotels, motels, hostels and other organizations have to be vigilant when it comes to pest prevention. Not only could patrons be at risk from an unforeseen infestation, but negative reviews and complaints could quickly spell trouble even for a well-established business.
Unfortunately, hotels and similar institutions are uniquely vulnerable to pest problems, which certainly complicates control measures. Here's why the hospitality industry faces such a diverse array of issues related to pests.
Perhaps the most pertinent pest issue facing hotels is the continued threat of bed bugs. Managing so many beds is tricky, and because patrons can unwittingly transfer these little insects through clothing and luggage, managers and cleaning staff must always keep an eye out for a bed bug outbreak. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the National Pest Management Association and the University of Kentucky recently found that hotels and similar establishments are among the most common places to find these pesky bugs. And to make matters worse, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reported that bed bug bites can cause serious skin irritation in some people.
Another especially difficult pest to mitigate is the cockroach. Visitors may leave behind all sorts of food scraps and waste, and this can be a welcome sign to eager insects. Unfortunately, roaches can enter a hotel through drains and pipes or even by hitching a ride on imported goods. That means that like bed bugs, property managers must be constantly on the lookout for signs of roaches.
Hotels offer more than just a place to hang your hat, and between conference rooms, recreation areas, pools and other amenities, there's a lot to attract visitors. Unfortunately, this also extends the number of places for an unwanted encounter with pests.
Everything from fruit flies and ants to mice and pigeons can be a disgusting or even dangerous problem. Many of the most common pests harbor infectious diseases, which can not only lead to a ruined reputation but could create real risk for patrons and staff.
Some hotels are well-recognized because of their food service, sometimes including a flagship restaurant. This too creates risk for pest problems. Any number of animals might try to visit the kitchen in an effort to earn a quick meal, and possibly creating an unsavory and unsafe situation. Even the cleanest kitchen can be infested through shipped goods, making control efforts difficult.
Many of the best hotels have patios, pool areas, beaches and other amenities that offer relaxation and fun. Managing these locations can be difficult, but a guest is unlikely to forget spotting a rat during a swim or having a decadent lunch interrupted by biting insects. At the same time, obvious prevention tools like traps and deterrents might be off-putting for visitors. Hotel managers must walk a difficult line between keeping patrons safe without making the effort too obvious and visible. This is especially tough because outdoor pests can come from just about anywhere.
There are any number of ways pests can infiltrate a hotel, motel or other establishment. This is a problem, as management has any number of issues to deal with in a given day beyond pest prevention. For that reason, the hospitality industry must select pest control solutions that are easy and reliable.
This starts with prevention. Keeping things as clean as possible will limit the number of animals attracted to a property in the first place. But because pests can travel via patrons and supplies, constant vigilance is just important. Problems should be reported and addresses right away to keep the impact to a minimum. The best pest control specialists offer real-time, digital management. Site maps and instant documentation help identify and mitigate any issues as soon as possible.
As the weather cools, you'll probably see fewer pests than you did during the warmer months, but that doesn't mean they're all gone just yet. Some insects can actually come out in full force during the autumn, while others might seek refuge in your warm home. Here are some key tips to keep in mind as fall gets underway:
As the middle of summer approaches, you need to be vigilant about keeping your garden free of pests. Many insects breed during the summertime, which means they're on the lookout for great places to lay their eggs. For many bugs, that means near a source of food. In fact, some species of insects will lay their eggs inside budding vegetables and fruit so their larvae have something to eat as soon as they hatch. That's why you have to keep harmful bugs out without damaging the bugs that could help you, such as bumble bees.
You might have noticed that, with the exception of the kitchen, you find more pests in your bathroom than in the rest of your home. This is because insects and rodents see the bathroom as a convenient watering hole. Pests love leaky pipes and standing water because these offer them a hydrating oasis in the otherwise dry biome that is your house or apartment. And if your bathroom develops mold, all the better for pests, who may eat fungus or use it to lay their eggs.
The kitchen is largest gathering place for pests in a residential home. The reason is simple: pests can grab a bite to eat and take a sip of water while they're here. And when they find such a bountiful place, they will return home to their nests and report the finding - before you know it, your whole pantry is a buffet for ants! The problem could get even worse if a piece of food falls somewhere and begins to rot. Similarly, fruit and vegetables you bring into your home may be harboring unseen pests waiting to hatch.
It's finally here - sweet, sweet summertime at last! But has your time outside already been rudely interrupted by swarms of pesky bugs trying to take a stab at you? This season, let's say no more to swatting, slapping or clapping at these insects who seem to be tormenting innocent outdoors enthusiasts every year. Fortunately, the solution isn't as chemical ridden as you might think. As it turns out, some of your favorite scents are insects least favorite.
Not every creature that visits your property is a dangerous nuisance. Many animals actually offer a number of benefits that keep your yard healthy. Predatory animals, in particular, actually offer natural pest control. Here are five common suburban creatures that can help keep more difficult or annoying animals at bay:
Discovering a mouse is loose in your home can be a real headache, and for restaurant owners, such an infestation can be an even bigger problem. Mice may be cute, but they simply do not belong in the kitchen, attic or anywhere else. If you've noticed any of these signs around your house or business, it may be time to call in a professional rodent exterminator:
The customer is always right, and this is especially true if he or she is complaining about seeing a mouse or cockroach. Pests have no place in your organization, as bugs and rodents will turn away potential business or even lead to a possible lawsuit. Keeping your company protected requires a proactive approach. Work with a pest removal specialist to identify the best ways to stop creatures from infesting your business. Here are just a few ideas for successfully mitigating and preventing any issues:
