With the start of the new school year, approximately 494,000 students move to various cities to continue their studies, many of them occupying shared flats, residences, or student dormitories. Although this transitional period can be exciting, it can also be the beginning of an unwanted coexistence with insects and pests such as cockroaches, ants, or bed bugs.
Experts from the company Rentokil warn that during the first weeks of residency, it is crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of the condition of the property to detect any signs that may indicate the possible presence of infestations. Shared housing provides a conducive environment for these undesirable tenants, particularly in situations where there is moisture, abandoned food remnants, or hard-to-reach areas that can serve as hiding spots. Additionally, in older properties, pests like termites and woodworms can be latent threats that go unnoticed.
The first signs of an infestation are usually subtle. In the kitchen, the presence of small droppings, damaged food remnants, or suspicious odors may indicate the arrival of cockroaches or rodents. On the other hand, blood stains on sheets or dark spots on mattresses could signal a bed bug problem. The recurrent appearance of ants, especially near the kitchen or windows, may also indicate a nearby nest or entry point that needs to be investigated.
Wooden furniture requires special attention. The detection of tiny holes, dust or sawdust accumulations, as well as the fragility of certain elements, may be signs of woodworms or termites. Luis Calderón, technical director of Rentokil, comments that when arriving at a new property, tenants often focus on cleaning and the condition of the furniture, neglecting the small clues that could indicate the presence of pests. Detecting them in time is crucial to prevent the problem from spreading.
Performing daily inspections is a recommended practice. In the kitchen, it is advisable to check cabinets, drawers, and appliances, while in the bedrooms, it is essential to verify mattresses, bed frames, and headboards. In old houses, it is also wise to inspect beams and door frames.
Prevention is key. Keeping food tightly sealed, avoiding garbage accumulation, and securing doors and windows are effective measures. Cooperation among students is essential, as an infestation detected in one room can easily spread to other areas of the property. For this reason, it is essential to immediately report any signs of pests to take quick and effective action.
If signs of infestation are identified, it is vital to avoid homemade solutions that may prove ineffective. Rentokil advises relying on professionals who can correctly identify the species and its origin, and establish the appropriate treatment. For pests like termites and woodworms, there are specific solutions, such as SentriTech, which use bait stations to eradicate colonies.
The process of inspecting the home before moving in, knowledge of warning signs, and maintaining constant communication are essential steps to prevent a small presence of insects or rodents from becoming a big problem.
via: MiMub in Spanish
