The severe flooding parts of the country have experienced over the last couple of months had catastrophic effects on human health and property, and the aftermath can be just as devastating. In the days and weeks following a flood, pest problems can explode, compounding the existing challenges associated with recovery and rehabilitation. An abundance of water and refuse are the two biggest factors allowing pests to flourish. This is especially true for flies, including mosquitoes and filth flies, but also impacts cockroaches and rodents.

Steps to Reduce Pest Pressures After Flooding

A hole in a wall made by a rodent.

  • Inspect your premises for damage that will allow pests or rodents entry into structures, or allow wildlife onto the property. Performing exclusionary measures is an important first step and should be prioritized accordingly. Resources may be limited, but remember that temporary exclusion measures are significantly better than none.
  • Keep doors and windows closed. All openings to the exterior should be fitted with size 30, or smaller, mesh screens.
  • Eliminate areas and items that hold standing water such as empty bottles and cans, tires, buckets, flower pots, cups, and bowls, on a weekly basis. Any place that can hold water half an inch deep is enough to allow mosquitoes to breed.
  • Locate sources of trash and organic matter and place them in sealed trash bags, tightly fitting containers, or dumpsters. Rodents, A bowl of water that is full of mosquitoes.cockroaches, and filth flies take advantage of these resources and flourish in their presence. If there are animal carcasses or other areas that can’t safely be dealt with, make a note of their location and share the information with your pest management provider so treatment efforts can be most effective.
  • High humidity is a significant factor in allowing pests to thrive indoors. When possible, use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture.
  • Personal protection is crucial, too. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed-toes shoes. Protect your skin from biting flies by applying an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Following these steps can help minimize the threat of pest infestations at your commercial facility after flooding. However, if you are facing an infestation do not hesitate to contact Copesan at 1-800-COPESAN for assistance.

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more pest management tips and how to prevent specific pests!