Happy National Pest Management Month

FAIRFAX, Va. (April 1, 2013) – Today kicks off National Pest Management Month, an observance recognizing pest professionals for keeping the public safe from unwanted pests that can cause property damage, contaminate food and spread serious diseases.

Some common household pests, including termites and rodents, can cause costly damage to a home. Termites have the ability to chew through wood undetected, while rodents can spark house fires by gnawing through electrical wiring.

Other pests, such as cockroaches and mosquitoes, pose health threats to humans. Cockroach allergens are known to trigger asthmas attacks, especially in children. Mosquitoes can carry West Nile virus, a potentially fatal disease.

To protect against these and other warmer weather pests, experts at the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are encouraging people to take some time during National Pest Management Month to pest-proof their homes in preparation for a busy pest season.