Cockroaches
Signs of cockroaches
All cockroaches are nocturnal and will hide during the daytime. However, if an infestation is large enough you may be able to see the insects at any time during the day. If you suspect you have an infestation, watch for insects scuttling away to hide when you enter at night. You can also use a torch to check behind units, refrigerators and cookers to look for cockroaches.
Infestations will be found in areas of high humidity and near food e.g. in kitchens behind fridges, skirting boards, around cookers and in cupboards.
How to prevent or control an infestation
Good housekeeping and hygiene should help prevent or control a cockroach infestation. However, the following suggestions may also help:
- Keep all open food stuff in tightly sealed airtight containers.
- Keep surfaces, food preparation areas and floors as clean as possible. Untidy and unclean living conditions will attract cockroaches
- Clean kitchen areas intensely, focusing on areas where grease accumulates.
- Clear up after every meal and do not leave food out overnight, especially uneaten pet food.
- Remove rubbish regularly from inside the home.
- Rubbish should be stored in sealed bins (i.e. wheelie bins) and kept away from the home entrance.
- Ensure any indoor drain access is sealed.