Jun 13, 2014 | DIY, DIY Mosquito Control, Mosquito
How to Treat a Mosquito Bite
If you spend any time outside, especially in the Southern states, there is a good chance you will get a mosquito bite. The female mosquito (males don’t bite) feed on blood. Once they bite they cause a minor allergic reaction. You will most often see the skin raise and turn red. The itch comes from the allergic reaction to the saliva, an anticoagulant, that the mosquito injects while sucking your blood.
So how can you treat a mosquito bite?
- Wash the affected area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol to remove any excess saliva that is still on the skin.
- Apply ice to the bite as soon as you become aware that you’ve been bitten. Ice will help alleviate pain and swelling.
- Apply an anti-itch medication to the area of the bite. You can also try home remedies such as applying toothpaste, baking soda, mouth wash, or Epsom salt.
- Although it can be difficult, avoid scratching. Scratching will only further aggravate the itch and prolong healing.
How to avoid getting bit by a mosquito:
- Have your property treated by a licensed mosquito control company.
- Apply an insect repellent to deter mosquitoes.
- Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed toed shoes when possible.
- Read our blog 10 Ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites
Jun 6, 2014 | Company News, Pest Control
Northwest Exterminating Jumps 3 Spots to #19 on PCT’s Top 100
Each year PCT (Pest Control Technology) puts out a list of the Top 100 Companies. We are proud to say that Northwest Exterminating jumped 3 spots to #19 from last year! The list is compiled by the PCT staff.
In the article, Northwest Exterminating’s Stanford Phillips talks about our NorPest Green Pest Control service and how “Going Green” is truly a way of life at Northwest.”It’s really changed our culture overall. Green is who we are, it’s what we offer, and our purpose is to help create a healthier working and living environment. We’re out there with the purpose of leaving that home or business knowing that we’ve created a healthier environment for that family. That makes it personal.”
If you’re not using a green approach to your pest control, we highly recommend that you do. FOr more information on NorPest Green you can visit our website. We offer a FREE inspection for your home.
Jun 4, 2014 | Wildlife
Scientists Develop a Use for Rats in Space
By: Katherine King
It seems like every little kid, and some (most) adults, dream of going to space one day. The only trouble seems to be the whole lack of gravity thing, minor details. Scientists have come up with a new way to study the effects of microgravity on astronauts…rats!
Scientists have developed new, high-tech cages that will allow for constant monitoring of rats or mice as they are in space. The cage provides food, water, fresh air, lighting, and bars to aid in movement. It is designed so that the rats can move from a transport cage to their main habitat without risk of escape. Rats and mice are great study animals, because they have similar eating habits to humans, have been extensively studied, and have a short life span. The new information gathered from the rats and mice will help scientists to understand the effects of microgravity over time, and help astronauts to come back healthier than in the past.
Scientists may not have been studying rodents in space for very long, but Northwest Exterminating has been studying rodents in your “space” for years! If you have a rodent problem, call Northwest Exterminating today.
May 30, 2014 | Wildlife
Beware of Snakes While Still Enjoying Your Summer
By: Katherine King
The weather is starting to warm up nicely, making a lot of us want to be outside to soak up the sun. We aren’t the only ones enjoying the sun’s rays, though. Snakes are reptiles, which means they are cold-blooded and dependent on their surroundings to regulate body temperature. Be careful when participating in outdoor activities. Caution is necessary around rock and log piles, particularly if they are in a nice, sunny spot. Snakes will often rest on the top of these areas to warm up before they begin the day’s activities.
Snakes may also be in your garden, helping you control insect populations. Watch where you put your hands so that you do not accidentally grab a small snake. Snakes never intentionally harm humans, but when they do it is because they feel threatened. If at all possible, avoid interactions with snakes. If you are bitten by a snake that is poisonous, seek medical attention immediately, do not try to do anything on your own.
If you are having a snake problem, contact Northwest Exterminating’s Wildlife division. A service representative will be sent to remove the snake, and provide suggestions on how to avoid contact with snakes in the future.
Katherine King
[email protected]
May 23, 2014 | Uncategorized
What Are 10 Ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites?
Here in the South, mosquitoes and summer go together like peanut butter and jelly. In North America there is an estimated 170 different species of mosquito. Sometimes it feels like 169 of those species live right here in the south. Aside from being a nuisance, mosquitoes can be a threat to our health. West Nile virus is a disease that is carried by mosquitoes and has become a concern in the US in recent years.
So how do you keep those pesky mosquitoes away? Below are 10 ways to Prevent Mosquito Bites:
- Wear long clothes – We know it’s the summer and it’s hot but if possible, wear long sleeves and pants when you’re going to be outdoors.
- Eliminate areas of standing water – Empty areas where water collects such as flower pots and bird baths. Properly landscape areas of the yard where water pools.
- Use insect repellant containing DEET – Follow the instructions on insect repellants that contain DEET.
- Ensure windows and doors are screened – If you have windows and/or doors open make sure they are properly screened to keep mosquitoes from entering your home.
- Avoid the outdoors between dusk and dawn – Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn. Avoid going outside during those times.
- Try not to work up a sweat – Mosquitoes are attracted to the lactic acid in sweat.
- Don’t move – Mosquitoes are attracted to movement, so be still!!
- Wear light colored clothes – Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors so wear lighter colors to avoid their bites.
- Don’t drink beer – Mosquitoes are beer lovers and will likely bite you if you are drinking one.
- Keep body temperature low – Stay cool. The higher your body temperature, the more attracted mosquitoes are to you.
Mosquito treatments can also be a great way to prevent mosquitoes. Northwest Exterminating offers a GREEN mosquito program that targets both mosquito larvae and adult mosquitoes.
