Revised 6/12/19

 

Ladybugs are generally considered highly beneficial from an agricultural standpoint because they eat aphids, mealybugs, mites and scale insects. On the other hand, Stink Bugs pose a threat to many fruit-bearing trees, vegetables and soybeans. The Boxelder Bug, though less well known, is a problematic pest for many households. Named for the harm it causes to boxelder trees, the Boxelder Bug also poses a threat to other related trees such as maples.

 

During the fall season, as the weather turns colder, Ladybugs, Stink Bugs and Boxelder Bugs start invading homes in search of a warm place to spend the winter. These bugs may be a “smelly” nuisance, but are harmless to humans, structures and fabrics.

 

While the Fall Service is an exclusive outside service, customers sometimes ask what to do about these bugs that get inside. The best answer for them is to use their vacuum with a hose attachment to suck up groups of Stink Bugs or Ladybugs that they find inside. Also, inform them to be sure to either empty the canister into an outside trashcan or remove the bag and put it outside. The bugs don’t die when they are vacuumed up and will just walk back out into the house if they leave the bag inside. In addition, the vacuum bag should be replaced immediately, and the canister model cleaned with vinegar.

 

During this time of year, these bugs seek out the sunny side of a structure – usually the North side, but sometimes the south side as well. They will find tiny cracks even in the most sealed up house, and will usually end up around the windows.

 

 

6 STEPS OF SERVICE

 

Following the 6 Steps of Service:

• Meet the homeowner or tenant and listen to any concerns.

• Inform the customer of your general inspection and treatment plans.

• Let them know what you expect to see while treating and ask if they are currently experiencing any mosquito issues.

• Explain what they can expect from the treatment.

• Explain that windows WILL get spray on them no matter how hard we try to keep it off and still get coverage.

 

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SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS

 

Inspection:

• Inspect the entire outside, looking for insect harborage areas and insect access points.

• Inspect all areas that could provide conducive conditions to insect activity.

• Inspect all areas of the structure, including attics, crawlspaces, exterior foundations, basements, etc.

• Identify or verify the pest that has the customer concerned to determine the treatment method and the material to be used.

 

Approved Product List:

• Treatment Materials: Demand CS; Temprid

 

Outside Treatment:

• Start at the right (or left) front corner of the structure.

• Treat with gas-powered back-pack mister around all windows and door entrances (B&G hand sprayer can be used in an emergency).

• Treat entry ways where plumbing and electrical enter the structure.

• With truck rig hose, treat outside of the house and out with a 3-4 foot perimeter.

• Treat all shrubbery within 4 feet of the house.

• Continue in the same direction of the property until back at your starting point.

• Stay at least 10 feet away from all ponds and other water areas – use caution against drift on windy days.

• While providing treatment, examine for termites, wasps and other pests living outside to recommend other A-1 services.

 

Other Notes:

• When pulling the hose from the truck, inspect the exterior of the structure as discussed above while moving to the back of the structure, and provide treatment as you work your way back to the front toward the truck.

• The gas-powered back-pack mister can be used as an alternative to the truck rig.

• The exterior of the structure is treated to kill existing populations and to discourage future populations.

• Wear long sleeves and a respirator on windy days.

• While providing treatment, examine for termites and other pests living outside to recommend other A-1 services.

 

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6 STEPS OF SERVICE (continued)

 

Continuing to follow the 6 Steps of Service:

• Let the customer know what was found and what was done. If the customer is not available, leave a “Door Hanger” with written notes specifying what was found, what was done, and any recommendations deemed necessary.

• Inform the customer what to expect over the next few days, weeks, months, etc. Set clear expectations for upcoming visits.

• Ask the customer: “Do you have any other Pest Control needs I can take care of today?”

• If the customer does NOT already have a Home Shield service, ask them, “May I tell you about our routine service for continuous pest protection for your family?”

• Ask the customer, “If you feel that I provided you with good service today, I’d like to invite you to give us a positive online review – we’ll make it very easy for you.”

 

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NO WARRANTY – 1-Time Service

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