We may associate cockroaches with scorching temperatures and tropical holiday destinations but believe it or not, we do get them here in the UK.
We even have a couple species which are native to the UK so although you probably are less likely to see them here, there are certain behaviours which can encourage cockroaches, so we have complied some handy info for you to keep in mind in the hope you will never have to deal with a cockroach infestation.
Why are cockroaches a problem?
Aside from being unpleasant to see them running around, cockroaches can be harmful to humans because they carry potentially dangerous bacteria. Food poisoning is one of the most common which is why it’s especially important that any business involved in preparing or selling food stays on top of infestations at all times.
These pests can also carry other serious illnesses such as salmonella, dysentery, gastroenteritis and typhoid.
Cockroaches in the UK are typically found living indoors. This can be anywhere from kitchens, basements and heating ducts to commercial properties like restaurants.
These pests can go an incredible 100 days without food but they can’t survive more than a couple days without water. Naturally, this means that they’re more likely to be hiding out somewhere they can easily gain access to a source of water.
Bathrooms and kitchens are a common place to find cockroaches for this reason. Check at the back of any cabinets, behind sinks, baths, toilets, dishwashers and washing machines and anywhere that’s dark and sheltered.
What are the signs of a cockroach infestation?
Common signs that can help you to identify a possible cockroach infestation include:
- An unusual and unpleasant smell in your property
- These are usually about 2mm long and are cylindrical. If little water is available, they will produce brown/black droppings
- If water is abundant, cockroaches ill produce brown and irregular shaped smear marks. These will often occur on horizontal surfaces and at wall-floor junctions where they pass
- Shed skins – these are often found close to where the cockroaches are sheltering
- Cockroaches will eat almost anything so you may notice damage to leather items, books, paper, clothing, packaging materials and they can even eat pet food and droppings
How to prevent cockroaches
The best way to prevent a cockroach infestation is to practice good hygiene.
- Clear up any food and liquid spills as soon as you can
- Sweep up crumbs and debris
- Wipe down surfaces regularly
- If you have pets, it’s also a good idea to clear up their food immediately
- Store food in sealed containers
- Don’t leave liquids sitting around in sinks or buckets
- Rinse out any cans, bottles or plastics before putting them in recycling bins
- De-clutter – the fewer places cockroaches have to hide, the less likely they are to stay. In particular, make sure that there aren’t any stacks of newspapers and magazines or cardboard boxes being stored on the floor of cupboards
- Block off any potential entry points such as cracks in walls and gaps in doors
If you think that you may have a cockroach infestation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Prokill today. One of our professional experts will be able to provide you with all the advice you need as well as carry out a free pest audit.
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