Wherever you live, there’s a good chance you have had to, or currently are, dealing with a roach problem.
In some cities, like New Orleans, over 40% of homes report a roach infestation.
Roach bombs, or foggers, may do the trick, but roaches are some of the most resilient creatures on Earth. So when you’re using a fogger you need to do it right.
Read on to learn how to use roach bombs effectively while staying safe.
Safe and Effective Placement
The best you can do is to space out the bug bombs as evenly as possible. The label on the container will tell you how much area it’s designed to cover. Pests will usually leave signs of infestation but don’t pack one area with multiple foggers because it shows signs of roaches.
It’s extremely important to place them at a safe distance from any flame or any electronic device that could spark. For instance, your stove and your hot water heater have a pilot light that’s always burning. Your refrigerator and air conditioner cycle on and off, which could cause a spark.
Bug bombs are highly flammable. Explosions have occurred, but be cautious and you’ll be fine. The EPA recommends placing foggers a minimum of 6 feet from any ignition source like the ones mentioned above.
Don’t Use Extra Foggers
The more the better, right? Wrong.
Accidents can occur when you use more foggers than you need. It can cause the buildup of excessive flammable material and leave behind chemical residue.
Bug bombs come in different sizes. Check the container carefully to determine how many you need for your space. It might be tempting to add one or two more but it’s not helpful and just risky.
You won’t ever need more than one fogger per room. If it takes any more than that, you need to contact a professional, like Youngs Pest Control.
Protect Your Belongings
The roach bomb contains toxic chemicals. You have to be especially careful not to ingest any of the chemicals. This means protecting the right items and surfaces in your home.
The first place you might think of is the kitchen. Put all of your dishes away in cabinets or containers before using the fogger. You should also cover any surfaces that your food and utensils might touch, like your countertops, with a plastic sheet.
Also, do the same for your pets. Don’t forget about the dog dishes, and cover the dog bed as well.
If you have small children you’ll want to be especially careful with their things. Any toys and other items they use must be put away or carefully covered.
Airing Out the Space
You’ll obviously stay out of your home while the roach bomb is in effect. Check the label for the amount of time you’ll need to give it.
Once enough time has passed you should open all windows and other airways, and fan the place out before spending time indoors again.
Roach Bomb and Other Home Advice
Use this guide to safely solve your pest problem with a roach bomb. But don’t stop there, there’s always more you can do for your home.
Read more home advice for living happy and healthy.