Flooded Homeowners Urged to Take Action After Water Recedes

Orkin Canada (CNW Group/Orkin Canada)

Orkin Canada warns many properties in flooded areas are at risk from heightened pest activity

TORONTO, May 24, 2017 /CNW/ - Homeowners affected by the recent flooding are being advised to examine their properties for pests as water levels recede. Orkin Canada is warning that the extreme weather forced many types of pests out of their natural habitat and some may have sought shelter and food in nearby properties.

"People can expect to see more activity as the pests seek shelter on higher grounds and forage for food in areas closer to humans," said Alice Sinia, PhD, Entomologist at Orkin Canada. "Likely, there were many animals that drowned during the flooding.  Carcases and sewer overflow provide breeding grounds for filth flies that are a potential health hazard because they transmit pathogens, such as salmonella and E. coli."

Orkin's entomologist also warns that stagnant water and wet or soggy soils provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes, fungus gnats and midges and say homeowners in affected areas can expect to see more activity from:

• Rodents (rats and mice)
• Raccoons
• Ants – especially Carpenter Ants
• Ground Beetles
• Fungus Gnats
• Midges
• Flies
• Mosquitoes
• Cockroaches

The following are proactive tips for concerned homeowners:

• Check all crawl spaces, attic areas, basements and storage sheds
• Ensure all spoiled food is put in sealed containers and disposed of correctly
• Make regular checks of water damaged wood structures for carpenter ants
• Remove standing water to eliminate mosquito breeding sites
• Rake flower beds, gardens or water soggy soils, so they can aerate and dry, to help prevent mosquitoes, midges and fungus gnats from breeding

About Orkin Canada
Orkin Canada, a wholly owned subsidiary of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE:ROL) is the country's largest pest control provider and leader in the development of fast, effective and environmentally responsible pest control solutions. One key program is the Home Pest Protection Program that prevents and eradicates pest infestations and provides key information about pests. Orkin Canada provides professional services to both residential and commercial clients from coast to coast. For more information, visit www.orkincanada.ca, like www.facebook.com/OrkinCanada or follow @orkincanada.

SOURCE Orkin Canada

If media outlets want to speak to a local Orkin Canada entomologist, contact: Brown & Cohen Communications & Public Affairs Inc. 416-484-1132, Michelle Petch ext 6 [email protected], or Wendy Kauffman ext 3 [email protected]