Skin Tag Removal

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Skin Tag Removal Phoenix is a quick, simple procedure done by a dermatologist or other certified medical professional. Though you may be tempted to try at-home treatments like freezing kits or using castor oil, tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar, this is not a good idea.

Skin tags are harmless and usually asymptomatic, but they can get caught on clothing or seatbelts, or become irritated from repeated rubbing in sensitive areas like the eyelid or genitals. Treatment is only recommended if they cause discomfort, irritation or disfigurement.

Skin tags are common, noncancerous growths that form in areas of friction. They typically appear in the neck, underarms and groin but can be found elsewhere on the body. They are not dangerous but can be an annoyance, particularly when they get caught on clothing or jewelry. Many people seek to remove them at home using techniques ranging from cutting to tying off the growths. These methods increase the risk of infection and scarring and should be avoided. Professional removal by a healthcare provider using techniques like excision, cryotherapy, ligation or hyfrecation is safe and effective.

Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments include skin tag removal creams, ointments and patches. These may have ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil to break down the tissue that makes up a skin tag. Some products also contain ligation bands that can be placed around the base of the skin tag, which cuts off its supply of blood and causes it to fall away. These products can cause skin irritation, and it can take several weeks or months for a person to see results.

Other over-the-counter remedies involve natural substances like apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, or banana peels to reduce the appearance of a skin tag. These methods have limited effectiveness and can be very messy. They can also lead to complications such as skin irritation and contact dermatitis.

A person can also purchase a home “freezing” kit that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze a skin tag. These kits often require multiple applications. A healthcare professional can perform this procedure in the office with much greater precision to avoid damage to surrounding skin. Lastly, there are over-the-counter creams and patches that claim to remove a skin tag by burning it. These products use chemicals such as nitrous oxide, propane and isobutane to burn the skin tag and break down its tissue. These products can also cause skin irritation, and they are not approved for the removal of skin tags by any medical authority.

Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments

Skin tags are common and harmless, but they can be painful when snagged on jewelry or clothing. There are many ways to remove them, from home remedies to over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. But it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist before attempting to remove a skin tag at home, especially if it is large or in a sensitive area.

OTC mole and skin tag removal creams contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, which can be effective for removing small skin tags. But the creams must be applied consistently for several days before the tag starts to shrink. They are also not scientifically tested for effectiveness, and the ingredients can irritate the skin.

Another popular OTC treatment involves using vitamin E, an antioxidant, to help skin tags disappear. This works by coating the skin tag with a topical solution that can be purchased in drugstores. The vitamin E can cling to the skin tag and block blood flow, causing it to dry up and fall off.

Apple cider vinegar is another popular OTC remedy for removing skin tags. Some people soak a cotton ball in the vinegar and affix it to the tag with a bandage for 10 minutes, three times a day. This can be irritating, and it may take weeks to see results.

Liquid iodine is another treatment for removing skin tags. It is recommended that one first protect the surrounding skin with a layer of petroleum jelly or coconut oil. Then, apply a small amount of iodine to the skin tag with a Q-tip. Then cover it with a small piece of gauze and a bandage until the skin tag dries. This can irritate the skin and lead to an itchy rash, called contact dermatitis.

Skin care therapists, estheticians, and some primary care physicians are trained to remove skin tags. But it is best to let a board-certified dermatologist perform the procedure. This is because skin tags can look like other types of growths and may need to be evaluated for cancer or other serious conditions. In addition, skin tags can be painful or itchy and may bleed when they are removed.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is an effective treatment for a large number of benign (non-cancerous) skin problems including warts and small skin tags. This procedure involves the freezing of these lesions using liquid nitrogen. It is a quick and relatively painless procedure and can be performed in a doctor’s office. It is also safe to use on most parts of the body. However, it may cause redness and swelling in the treated area, which usually heals within a few days. It is important to discuss the possible risks and side effects with your doctor before deciding on this type of treatment.

The cryogenic agent is applied to the lesion with a cotton swab or spray device, which freezes the skin tag. This causes rapid cell injury followed by slow thawing. The damaged tissue dries out and falls off, and the procedure may need to be repeated for some lesions. The optimal dose of cryogen, technique for application, duration of freezing and the amount of surrounding tissue frozen will depend on the nature of the lesion and the site on the body.

Liquid nitrogen is the most commonly used cryogenic agent. It has the lowest boiling point and greatest tissue-freezing capacity of available cryogens. Other cryogenic agents include nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide and fluorinated hydrocarbons. Home treatments involving dimethyl ether and propane have lower boiling points and are not suitable for treating many common skin disorders.

In this treatment, the skin tag is sprayed with liquid nitrogen, which quickly freezes it. The procedure is generally painless, but there may be a slight stinging sensation in some patients. The skin will begin to swell and redden shortly after the procedure, but this should resolve within a few hours. It is important not to break open the blister and to wash the affected area with fragrance-free soap daily.

This is a quick, inexpensive and highly effective way to remove skin tags. It is particularly useful in sensitive areas, such as the armpits and groin, where skin tags often develop due to friction. This is a safe treatment for most people, but those with diabetes should not undergo this procedure as it can lead to complications.

Snipping

Skin tags are usually harmless, but they can get snagged on clothing or become irritated or inflamed. While home treatments and OTC products can help, it’s important to visit a New York City dermatologist for a medical evaluation. They can diagnose whether the growth is a skin tag, mole or another condition. It’s also a good idea to get prompt medical attention if you notice that a mole or skin tag changes in appearance, as this can be a sign of cancer.

The treatment for a skin tag depends on the type and location of the growth, as well as your personal preference. Some people like to have their tags frozen or burned off. Others prefer to cut them off with surgical scissors or a scalpel. Snipping is generally considered more invasive than freezing or burning, but it can be faster and less painful.

A dermatologist can also remove the growth using a medical procedure called ligation. This involves tying a piece of surgical thread around the base of the skin tag to reduce blood flow and cause it to shrink and eventually fall off. Another procedure, called electrocautery, uses an electric current to burn off the growth. This is usually quicker than ligature but it can be more painful and may leave a scar.

While there’s no way to prevent the development of skin tags, it’s possible to limit their occurrence by maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tight clothing. Some people develop multiple skin tags in response to hormones, while pregnancy or weight gain can increase the likelihood of developing them. Rarely, the development of a lot of skin tags can be a sign of a hormonal or endocrine disorder, such as polycystic ovary syndrome or acromegaly.

Despite their harmlessness, it’s not unusual for people to want to remove their skin tags. This can be due to discomfort or embarrassment, or because they can cling to clothing or jewelry. There are a few different ways to do this, including freezing with liquid nitrogen or burning them with a cauterizing tool.

Insulation Removal Is a Hazardous Project That Requires Special Care and Knowledge

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Insulation is an important part of keeping your home healthy, comfortable and energy efficient. But over time insulation can become damaged due to pest infestation, water damage or general wear and tear.

Getting old insulation removed and replaced is a great way to improve the overall health of your home or business. Old insulation can be a home for mold, allergens and other pollutants which can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Contact Perth Insulation Remover now!

Homeowners often find themselves in a position where they must remove old insulation. This may be due to a renovation, addressing pest infestations, or completing an energy efficiency upgrade. This can be a hazardous project that requires special care and knowledge. It’s best to enlist the help of professionals if possible, as they can safely and thoroughly complete the work.

A professional can assess the type of insulation and its condition before beginning the removal process. This ensures the proper equipment and safety gear are used. It also helps to plan the process for the most effective result. Once the attic space is clear, the pros can begin vacuuming blown in insulation with a specialized attachment to remove loose fill insulation. They will also use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to minimize dust spread and contamination outside the attic.

HEPA filters are important for minimizing the risk of inhalation of fiberglass or cellulose insulation fibers. These contaminants can cause respiratory problems in some individuals, so it’s essential to protect the lungs and eyes during this process. A respirator mask or dust mask, protective gloves, and goggles are all useful tools for this project. Using disposable coveralls can further limit contaminants from touching regular clothing and skin.

Insulation can be a hazardous waste product, so it’s important to follow disposal regulations. This includes containing the material in thick, garbage bags to prevent fibers from becoming airborne. It’s advisable to label the bags clearly, as sanitation workers may need to know what they’re handling. Some types of insulation can be recycled, reducing landfill waste.

Whether you’re upgrading your insulation or addressing a pest problem, the experts at Insulation Remover can help! We have a wide variety of services, including attic inspections, air sealing, and installing new insulation. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an estimate.

Blown-in insulation can be a great addition to your home, but it’s also important to keep it in good condition. If your insulation is outdated or damaged, it can affect your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. It’s also important to check for water damage, mold, and rot. In these cases, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage and costly repairs.

It’s Effective

Insulation can become compromised over time due to factors such as dampness, mold growth and pest infestation. This can compromise the safety and energy efficiency of a home. In such cases, the insulation needs to be removed. This can also be a good opportunity to upgrade a home with modern, more efficient insulation materials.

Effective insulation removal requires proper planning and execution. Before beginning the process, it’s important to identify the type of insulation and assess any potential hazards. Proper identification will guide the choice of tools and safety precautions. This step will also help to establish a plan of attack for the removal process.

Depending on the type of insulation, the work area should be sealed off and appropriate protective gear worn. This includes a respirator mask with a filter to prevent inhalation of insulation fibers and dust, goggles to protect the eyes from irritants, and gloves for protection of hands and secure tool grip. Disposable coveralls can also be worn to minimize contamination of regular clothing and skin. The use of a vacuum designed to remove insulation will also help to limit the spread of dust and other debris.

After the insulation has been removed, it must be disposed of appropriately. This should be done by placing it in heavy-duty waste bags and sealing them tightly to prevent insulation particles from escaping. If a large amount of insulation has been removed, a dumpster may be needed to streamline waste removal and disposal.

Before disposing of the insulation, it’s also a good idea to consult local regulations regarding the proper way to dispose of this material. Depending on the region, some types of insulation can be recycled while others must be properly disposed of to avoid harmful environmental effects.

Hiring a professional to perform insulation removal can ensure the job is done correctly and safely. This is especially crucial when working with contaminated materials, or for large-scale projects that would be difficult to complete on a DIY basis. Homeowners should research companies to find one with a solid reputation and proven track record of success. This can be done by reading online reviews, requesting referrals from friends and neighbors, or checking business directories.

It’s Easy

Having old and moldy insulation that is not only inefficient but also a structural risk can pose serious problems for your home. Mold and fungus grow in old and damp insulation and will eventually cause rot, decay, and even structural failure in the areas affected. Having your old insulation removed immediately will prevent this from happening and keep you safe and healthy in your home.

It is recommended that you hire a professional to remove old insulation from your home. They have the knowledge, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively remove the old insulation, making it easier on you and your family.

Blown-in insulation is a messy, difficult project to complete on your own. If you do choose to go it alone, you will need a variety of tools, supplies, and equipment to help you get the job done. A HEPA rated vacuum, a mask or respirator, and gloves will be necessary.

You will also need to prepare your workspace by covering floors and walls in the area of your attic where you plan on working. Covering access doors and windows will also be helpful. A small rake will also be useful in breaking up large clumps of insulation so it can be vacuumed more easily. Finally, you will need to have a place to dispose of the insulation bags once they are full.

Before you start, make sure that you read all of the instructions on your rented equipment and understand how to operate it. It is also a good idea to bring a friend along to assist throughout the process. They can help you troubleshoot when you run into a problem with the equipment or if they see something that you missed. They can also help to ensure that your work is being done properly and to help you avoid any safety hazards.

Once you have the old insulation cleared away, you can install new insulation of your choice to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient. A professional will typically install the new insulation immediately to ensure that you benefit from the full benefits of your investment.

It’s Affordable

Insulation Removal can improve the comfort of your home and save on energy costs. However, the process can be expensive and requires specialized equipment. The exact cost depends on several factors, including the type of insulation and the amount of preparation required. It also depends on the size of the attic space and whether or not it’s difficult to access. It is best to consult a professional contractor to estimate the costs involved.

Blown-in or loose-fill insulation is usually more expensive than batts or rolls. It’s because it takes longer to remove and is more challenging to dispose of. It’s also more expensive when it contains abrasive materials that can damage removal equipment. It is advisable to use a high-powered insulation vacuum that has a specialized attachment. It’s important to protect yourself by wearing protective gear and setting up a work area away from the rest of the house to limit the spread of dust and debris.

If your home’s insulation is old, damaged, or contaminated with rodent droppings, it will need to be removed and replaced. These problems can lead to mold and other health hazards. They may also reduce the effectiveness of the insulation. Additionally, some types of insulation contain asbestos, which can cause a variety of health problems if inhaled. It is important to hire a qualified environmental hazard removal company to inspect your home’s insulation and make sure it is free of harmful substances.

The best insulation companies prioritize safety and efficiency. They have the knowledge, tools, and experience to conduct a thorough risk assessment and develop a detailed plan of action. They will also ensure that the insulation is disposed of according to local regulations. It is also important to choose a company with a proven track record of customer service. This includes excellent communication and a commitment to client satisfaction. They will answer all of your questions promptly and thoroughly. They will also provide you with a quote before starting the job. This will allow you to budget for the project and avoid any unexpected expenses.

Moving a Baby Grand Piano

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Pianos are one of the most difficult items to move into a home. They require specialized equipment and at least three people to lift safely.

Attempting to move a Baby Grand Piano without proper preparation is risky and often results in damage. Hiring a professional is the best choice to ensure a successful, damage-free move. Contact Baby Grand Piano Moving Charleston now!

When moving a baby grand piano, there’s no such thing as “winging it.” While there are strongmen out there who have moved a piano alone, you should never attempt a move of this scale without the help of a team of professionals. Pianos are incredibly heavy and difficult to lift, and even a small mistake can cause serious injury.

Professional piano movers will take the time to scout out your destination, find the spot where you want your piano to go and measure its dimensions. This will help them determine what kind of specialized equipment they need to bring with them, and it will ensure that your piano makes it safely to its new home. They’ll also make sure that there’s ample space to move it in and out of the house, clearing doorways and hallways for safe passage. In addition, they’ll make sure to protect flooring and stairs with plastic floor protection and padding.

If you decide to hire a team of movers, be sure to get a quote for the whole job. Some companies may offer a lower price than others, but be sure to factor in the cost of additional materials and labor. Additionally, be wary of companies that offer low prices but don’t provide you with a comprehensive service.

Once the movers arrive, they’ll disassemble the piano and remove its lid. Next, they’ll wrap it with moving blankets to protect it from scratches during transport. Once the piano is covered, a team of movers will carefully guide it onto a piano board (also known as a skid board) and then onto a moving truck. Using ratchet straps and additional moving blankets, they’ll secure the piano for a smooth ride to its new home.

It’s important to note that a grand piano can take some time to get used to its new surroundings. After you’ve moved it into its new home, it’s important to have it tuned right away to get the sound back to where it was before the move. This way, it can continue to produce the beautiful melodies you love.

Disassembly

Pianos are one of the most challenging items for anyone to move. Whether it is a grand or baby grand, they require a team of at least four people to maneuver and transport. Moving companies specialize in this type of move and are well worth the investment for the peace of mind they bring.

Before the move begins, the movers should carefully disassemble the legs of the piano and wrap them individually for protection. The music rack should be removed as well as the pedals and the lid of the piano. Each piece should be wrapped with heavy padding and taped securely to prevent damage during the move.

Once all the pieces have been removed, the movers can begin moving the piano. They should use a large piano dolly to support the weight of the instrument during transport. Depending on the distance and the number of stairs involved, it may be necessary to utilize a ramp or plywood sheeting to make it easier to load the piano onto the truck.

When loading the piano onto the truck, it is important to secure it with furniture straps and ropes to prevent movement during transportation. This will reduce the risk of damage to the piano and to the home it is being transported to. The movers should also be sure to pad all hallway floors as they wheel the piano through them.

As a final step, the movers should wrap the entire piano with moving blankets to protect it from any scratches or marks during transport. It is also a good idea to wrap the legs and pedals separately with thick padding and secure them to avoid any mishaps during the process.

After the piano has been fully wrapped, it should be placed on a piano skid and secured to the skid with straps before being moved to the truck. The movers should be sure to keep an eye on the piano at all times and make sure it is not being leaned or tilted during transport. It is a good idea to have the piano tuned after the move to ensure that it will retain its tune.

Wrapping

Whether you’re moving a baby grand or an upright piano, a detailed plan for the move is essential. This should include a supply list, the number of helpers you’ll need, and a floor plan of both your current location and your new home. This will help you determine the size of truck to rent and whether your piano will fit through doors, stairwells, or tight corners.

Next, the piano should be wrapped in moving blankets or padding to protect it from scratches and dents during transport. It’s important to use heavy-duty blankets for this purpose; regular blankets are too flimsy and can damage the instrument. Once the piano is covered, it should be carefully rolled onto a dolly for transport.

During transport, the piano should be secured to the dolly using heavy-duty straps and ratchet straps. It’s also a good idea to place the piano against one of the back walls of the truck to minimize movement during transit.

Once the piano is in its new location, it should be unloaded carefully and positioned against an interior wall. If necessary, it can be secured to the wall with ratchet straps and furniture straps. Finally, it’s important to protect the instrument from extreme temperatures and humidity levels in the new home. This is especially true for outdoor storage, where the temperature can fluctuate significantly.

While it may be tempting to attempt a DIY move, you should never try to move large and heavy items like pianos without the proper equipment and training. Not only can it cause expensive damage to your belongings, but you can also injure yourself. Hiring professional piano movers Gulfport MS is always the best option when it comes to moving large and delicate items. They have the experience and tools needed to safely disassemble, transport, and reassemble your piano. Choosing this route can save you time, money, and stress during your move. For more information, visit a website such as Moving Help.

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When a grand piano needs to be moved from one location to another, it’s not an easy task. Professional movers have the equipment and experience to make the move quickly and efficiently, and they can provide the services you need if your situation requires them (disassembly, crating, hoisting). They’ll work with you to create a quote that will include all charges, including the cost of the piano itself, the extra costs for disassembly or other requirements, and any mileage or other fees.

Most movers will start by measuring doorways and hallways to ensure the piano will fit. They’ll then plan the best route for the piano to get from its point of origin to its destination. This may involve removing doors temporarily or creating ramps to facilitate the process. The movers will take every measure to protect the instrument and minimize damage.

Loading the piano into a truck or trailer is a big job that requires a lot of people. To begin with, the piano will need to be strapped to a piano board. The piano board is the flat surface on top of the grand piano that’s typically covered in padding. To secure the piano to the board, you’ll need at least 2 heavy-duty buckle straps that are securely wrapped around the body of the piano. You can find these at most hardware or home-supply stores.

Once the straps are secured, the piano can be lifted onto a piano dolly and wheeled away. At this point, it’s important that everyone involved remembers to take care with the piano and be cautious in tight spaces or corners. A little bump or scrape can cause a lot of damage to a large, delicate instrument.

Once the piano is in the truck or trailer, it will need to be strapped down again. This will prevent the piano from shifting in transit, which could potentially damage it. Once the piano is secure, you can load the rest of your belongings into the vehicle and head to your new home or venue. When you arrive at your new location, the movers can guide the piano into its final position, carefully positioning it in place to prevent damage.

Pest Control Prevention

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Pest Control means managing pests (plants, animals, or diseases) so they do not cause unacceptable damage. There are three basic methods: prevention, suppression, and eradication.

Pests are controlled by their natural enemies, such as parasites, predators, and pathogens, or by environmental factors like weather and host resistance (using resistant varieties). Sometimes, pheromones and juvenile hormones are used to manipulate pest populations. Contact Seaside Pest Control now!

Pests are more than annoying; they can cause damage and pose health risks. Whether they’re rodents gnawing on wires or flying insects spreading disease, pests should be prevented from entering buildings. A preventive program includes inspecting the exterior and interior for potential entry points and other conducive conditions and reducing attractants.

The primary objective of prevention is to keep a pest from occurring, which can be done by eliminating its environment or providing it with a less favorable habitat. It is also possible to reduce the number of pests to an acceptable level without causing too much harm to other organisms or property. Prevention can be divided into three stages: avoidance, suppression and eradication.

Preventing a pest problem is more cost effective than controlling it after it occurs. By preventing a pest infestation, businesses can save money on repairs and lost revenue. In addition, a proactive approach can also help protect employees’ health and safety.

A pest is any organism that can negatively impact a crop’s wholesomeness or yield. These include rodents (mice, rats and squirrels), crawling insects (cockroaches, ants, beetles, termites), flying insects (mosquitoes, bees, wasps) and plant diseases.

Often, preventive measures can be as simple as changing the way a business operates. For example, warehouses should be properly ventilated, and stored items should be sealed in plastic bags or containers to protect them from pests. Keeping trash cans closed and disposing of food waste regularly will keep pest populations down. Similarly, establishing clear lines of sight along walls will make it easier to inspect for pests and more likely to spot them early.

Another important part of a preventive program is to have a plan in place for responding to pests that do infiltrate the building. This involves having pesticides available to treat areas that require it. It is also important to know that there are certain peak infestation periods for different pests and seasonal patterns affect their activity.

It’s a good idea to hire professional pest control companies to perform regular inspections of your home or business. These experts can identify entry points, monitor for signs of pests and provide preventive treatments. They can also recommend other preventive measures that you can use, such as sealing cracks and crevices, cleaning out woodpiles, removing brush around the house, sanitizing the pantry and reducing food sources that attract pests.

Suppression

A pest control goal is to reduce the number of pests to a level that can be tolerated without damaging plants or spoiling food. Achieving this requires a multifaceted approach to pest management, with prevention and suppression being the most common goals in outdoor settings. Eradication is more of a goal in enclosed environments, such as homes, schools, and offices, or in agricultural and other commercial settings.

Preventive tactics for controlling pests can include avoiding plant damage, cultural practices that encourage natural enemies, and the use of chemical controls. Chemical pesticides are effective but carry risks of their own, and the more information about a pest’s life cycle and development that is known, the easier it is to apply pesticides correctly.

The goal of pesticides is to kill the pest by attacking a particular target, usually its body or organs. Pesticides may also affect other organisms in the environment, which can have a negative impact on the health and appearance of ornamental plants or crops. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the use of pesticides, especially those that are broad-spectrum and have been shown to negatively affect pollinators. This growing concern has led to a greater interest in alternative pest management tactics, such as biological control.

Biological control uses predators, parasites, and pathogens to reduce pest populations. The approach can be used on its own or in combination with other management methods, including monitoring, trapping, and sterile male releases. Some pests, such as thrips and mites, are continuous pests that require regular control, while others, such as beetles and caterpillars, are sporadic pests that can be controlled through a variety of means, including exclusion or quarantine, repulsion, or physical removal.

A major problem with biological control is that the organisms are often host-specific, and the natural enemy species that occur in an area may be insufficient to provide adequate control. Augmentative biological control is the practice of introducing additional natural enemies to an area where they are insufficient to suppress the pest population. This is commonly used in greenhouses, nurseries, and some vegetable and fruit fields. The natural enemy is mass-reared in insectaries, and then introduced into the field in small batches or in a single large release to increase their numbers and effectiveness.

Eradication

Eradication is an ultimate goal in pest control that seeks to eliminate a particular species of plant or animal, or their pathogens. It differs from prevention and suppression in that the elimination is intended to be permanent. Efforts to eradicate pests may be undertaken on a local, community, national, or global scale. Examples of eradication efforts include Mediterranean fruit fly, gypsy moth, and fire ant control programs. Eradication is more common in indoor environments, such as dwellings; schools, offices, and hospitals; and food processing, preparation, and distribution facilities.

Eradication requires that intervention be effective over a large area at the same time in order to ensure that no new infectious individuals are born and have an opportunity to transmit the disease. This is a challenging objective to achieve for infectious diseases that require multiple transmission steps, such as hookworms and dengue fever. A number of factors influence the feasibility of eradication: the ability to rapidly detect infective individuals, the cost of diagnosis and treatment, the availability of effective intervention tools, and the availability of financial resources and expertise (see Table 1-1 for a list of major eradication attempts).

Generally speaking, preventative pest control measures are more effective than extermination methods. For example, keeping garbage and recycling bins lined with tightly fitting bags helps keep pests from using them as breeding areas. In addition, storing trash receptacles on concrete or asphalt surfaces rather than in grass or dirt and having them cleaned frequently can help to discourage rodents and insects from seeking shelter there. Lastly, sealing cracks and openings larger than a quarter inch around the perimeter of the home is an important step in pest control.

Whether you choose to use poisons or natural solutions to rid your property of pests, hiring a licensed and insured professional is always the best option. Look for a company with a proven track record and good customer service. Some companies even offer money back guarantees on their services. For instance, Orkin and Terminix both offer this option. Also, look for certifications from the state and a pesticide applicator’s license.

Monitoring

Pest monitoring is the process of checking or scouting for pests to determine what kind are present, how many and the level of damage they are doing. This is an essential part of integrated pest management, or IPM (see Resources). It is the process that helps you know when action should be taken to prevent unacceptable injury or damage to plants or structures. It also lets you know when your control tactics have been successful.

In a home garden, for example, the pest population can be monitored by observing what kind of damage is being done to leaves and stems. A simple magnifying glass can be helpful in this effort. In a vegetable garden, you can look at leaf and stem axils, flower heads and other tight areas where insects might hide. You can also look for insect parts or droppings in soil. Some of these monitoring activities can be automated using pheromone attractants (chemical lures) placed in traps, as well as by using electronic pest monitors that are either self-contained or plugged into the computer to collect data.

The most critical part of pest monitoring, however, is correctly identifying the type of organism you have found. This is why a high degree of expertise in IPM is so important. This can prevent unnecessary pesticide use, as well as the use of the wrong type of pesticide.

It is also a good idea to have a record of the observations made, including date and time, location and other environmental factors that might be pertinent. Spreadsheets work well for this purpose, and smartphones can make it even easier to record data on the go. A pest monitoring logbook may also include basic information about the pest company that is doing the monitoring (e.g., certifications and licenses of the pest control technician); environmental conditions; pesticides used, if any; and the identification of any captured specimens.

If all of this sounds a bit overwhelming, you can get the help you need by hiring a professional pest control company. Many of these firms will not only shoulder the responsibilities for figuring out the best removal strategy, picking out the right pesticides, monitoring traps and looking for nests; they may offer a money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the results.