Pest control tips to help keep unwanted visitors away

  • Published
  • By Tech.Sgt. William T. Oaks
  • 49th Civil Engineer Squadron
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Spring has sprung and life is in abundance, but not the type we necessarily want to deal with......

As the temperature starts to rise, we all want to get outside and participate in more activities. 

Unfortunately this weather makes pests of all kinds more active too. Here is a quick list of pests you can possibly encounter both indoors and outdoors as well as how to mitigate/minimize possible contact. 

Please keep in mind this list is not all inclusive. The following suggestions for roaches and rodents are for offices, break rooms, bathrooms, industrial work centers as well as around your living area at home on or off base or an apartment, inside and outside. The rest of the suggestions for pests are good practices for wherever you are.

Roaches: Roaches are pests that are mainly encountered with poor sanitation (cleaning habits) in & around food areas and areas where moisture can accumulate. Good site sanitation is the BEST long term method of keeping roaches under control. Keep your food areas clean. Rotate your food on a routine basis. Do not let moisture accumulate. If you have to use pesticides, use roach bait stations, one of the safest methods of pesticide use. Always follow label directions.

Rodents: Rodents are smart, hungry, prolific critters. All they need is a ¼" opening to get into a facility. Do not give them a reason to come in or around a facility. Do not store food in your desk. Take it home at night or put it in a refrigerator. Keep your trash can lids tightly closed and the area around them clean. If you spill food in the parking lot, clean it up.

Rabbits: Don't feed them or give them water. If the population were to get out of control in the flight line area, it can also attract coyotes, wolves & stray dogs. That can add up to devastating results to aircraft on a taxiway or during take off and landing.

Coyotes, stray dogs and cats: Don't feed them or give them water. Report them so that they can be removed safely. You don't know if they are healthy or rabid. DO NOT take that chance. Rabies shots are painful and expensive. Unfortunately, behind every stray dog and cat, is an irresponsible pet owner who has left the rest of us to deal with their pet's abandonment.

Birds and bats: Try to prevent them from nesting in and around buildings. Screen up potential nesting areas (or call CE to do it). Do not feed them. Birds are MAJOR hazards for all aircraft during all phases of flying. Do not handle bird nests. They have can harbor disease. Also keep in mind certain bird species are protected and destroying the nest during birthing season is against the law. Seek educated advice on bird problems. Do keep in mind that bats are beneficial to the eco system and eat many insects on their night flights.