Unsightly insects or rodents can be a major bummer for homeowners, but for anyone that manages a restaurant or other eating establishment, these unwelcome pests can be dangerous visitors. Just one mouse could turn away valued customers or even warrant a meeting with the health inspector or sanitation department.
For restaurant owners trying to keep patrons safe and keep pesky critters away, there are easy steps to take that can minimize issues related to flies, rats or any other animals.
The outside
There are a number of things about the outside of your restaurant that may be attractive to menacing bugs or rodents, and from there, these creatures may decide to set up shop indoors. The website Websteraunt reported that stringent pest management begins outdoors.
The most obvious thing that will attract animals is likely a dumpster or trash bin. Between cockroaches and bees and rats> and raccoons, all sorts of wild visitors may be interested in rummaging through your waste. Even bears have been known to look for free meals in restaurant or household rubbish. Websteraunt stated that maintaining your waste is critical to keep animals at bay. Make sure a dumpster or trash can shuts tightly, and be sure to clean the area frequently to wash away any odors that may be attracting pests.
A back light may also be luring in unwanted insects. Use this to your advantage and invest in a bug zapper. This way you can eliminate creepy crawlers and keep them from entering your business. It is also essential that restaurant owners make sure all entrances are sealed firmly so that sneaky critters can't make their way indoors.
The inside
Restaurant Management 1010 reported that similar proactive measures can go a long way from keeping pests from making themselves comfortable inside. In this case, the name of the game is keeping everything as clean as possible.
Start in the dining area, and make sure everything is cleaned up each evening. This includes wiping down tables and seats, as well as mopping or vacuuming. Pests want an easy meal, and left behind crumbs are easy pickings for bugs and rodents.
Behind the scenes it is equally important that you and your team take the time to make sure there isn't anything left out that will attract hungry critters. Keeping your kitchen as clean as possible is critical for maintaining sanitation standards, but your storage and prep areas will also require attention.
Be sure food products are stored in a way that won't attract any animals. Cardboard boxes or paper bags are not good enough deterrents, while plastic, sealed containers should get the job done. Websteraunt suggested keeping a special eye on products that aren't used everyday, because it may be harder to spot an infestation.
Elsewhere, trash cans or food drains should be kept as clean as possible. Left behind residue from food waste may be enough to sustain pesky insects, and in turn, these pests may become food for other unwanted animals.
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:
