Battling Bugs in the Hottest Summer on Record
With the summer of 2024 expected to be the hottest on record, the battle against bugs will become more intense each year — especially in the Houston area. Data from popular blog site Thumbtack has revealed the most trouble-prone cities in the U.S., drawn from millions of housing project requests across the country.
For the third year in a row, Atlanta has topped the list, with cities in Texas and Florida also taking six of the top 10 spots. Demand for pest control services, inspections, bed bug eradication, and outdoor pesticide applications is on the rise.
Debunking Common Pest Control Myths
This year’s list also debunks common pest control myths and provides practical tips for managing pests. Here are the 5 cities with the worst year-on-year problems:
1. Atlanta (required to increase by 1.5% compared with the same period last year)
2. Washington D.C. ⬆(Demand increased by 20.6% annually)
3. Dallas ⬇ (Requesting an annual increase of 7.7%)
4. Baltimore ⬆(Requested annual increase of 26.4%)
5. Houston ⬇(requires annual increase of 8%)
Common Pest Control Myths Debunked
While citronella candles can help repel mosquitoes and some flying insects, their effectiveness is limited to a small area and depends on the presence of a strong scent. The repellent effect is temporary and less reliable in open air or windy conditions. Living on a higher floor can reduce contact with ground-level pests like ants or rodents, but it doesn’t eliminate the risk. Pests can still penetrate through shared walls, pipes, and vents. Mothballs are effective against moths and fabric-attracted pests, but they are not protective against most household pests. Abuse can also lead to poisoning. Cedar can repel some insects, but is not a complete solution. Its effectiveness diminishes over time and it does not cover all pests. Ultrasonic pest repellers claim to use sound waves to repel pests, but scientific evidence to support their effectiveness is limited and inconsistent, varying widely among different pests.
Overall, it’s important to stay informed about pest control measures and take proactive steps to manage and prevent infestations in your area.
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