Flooding in Atlanta area, a potenital health hazard: Arrow Exterminators

Oct 3 2009

Due to the flooding which hit the metro Atlanta area, Arrow Exterminators, a local pest and termite control company, is reaching out to educate the public on issues related to pest activity that can be expected after a flood and the diseases those pests might carry. As the water recedes, prime conditions and breeding grounds are created.

The public should be made aware of these potential problems to help safeguard their families from associated health risks. The flooding will have disrupted these pests’ natural habitats and they will be forced to relocate – unfortunately, many times to resident’s homes and yards.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, mosquitoes rank first in insects posing a risk to human life. West Nile Virus will certainly be of high concern. Even after flood waters subside, standing water left behind can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. September is the peak season for West Nile Virus, and the rapid reproduction of infected insects may lead to a much larger outbreak of the disease than previously anticipated.

Georgians are used to dealing with pests, however, the potential number of pests may push residents out of their comfort zone. Arrow is warning homeowners about the following pests that may be more active due to the floods:

• Rodents – Rodents are great swimmers and well-known for appearing after heavy rains or flooding. If homeowners notice them in their home or on their property, they should contact a pest professional or health officials.
• Mosquitoes – Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, and with continued warm temperatures, they may become a serious problem during the next few days and weeks.
• Ants – While ants may be considered a nuisance more than a health threat, most homeowners want to keep them outside. During heavy rains they tend to seek shelter inside homes.
• Cockroaches – Cockroaches are also attracted to water and homeowners may be seeing an increase inside and around the home.

INTERVIEW/VISUAL OPPORTUNITIES:

• On-camera or phone interview with a local Arrow pest and termite control expert who can offer tips homeowners can take to combat the pest problems.
• On-camera with Shay Runion, Vice President and expert on pests and pest related diseases.
• Possible live inspection/treatment at a home experiencing pest problems due to the flooding.

Source: Arrow Exterminators