Plattsburgh, NY

                                                                                                                                                                         

COCKROACHES

             


Cockroach Information

 The word cockroach comes from the Spanish word "cucaracha" which means "crazy bug".  There are about 3,500 different species of cockroaches in the world. About 50-60 species live in the United States. The cockroach has been around for about 350 million years, and is highly adaptable. It can survive on very little food. It is reddish brown about 1 1/2 inches long and can fit into small thin crevices.

Studies have shown that 98% of cockroaches carry at least three types of bacteria that are know to cause food poisoning. Among the diseases that may be spread are Typhoid Fever, Dysentery, Cholera, Polio-myelitis Virus, and Tapeworm.
 

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 Information

 Cockroaches prefer areas that are warm, dark, damp, and narrow, and will live in anything from sewers to televisions sets. They have antennae located on the head which allows them to "sense" movement in the surrounding areas and cause the cockroach to run at the indication of any approaching objects or persons.

They can live in temperatures from 10 - 140 degrees fahrenheit, and are also able to survive with a loss of legs or antennae.


How Can I Prevent Infestation?

 Proper sanitation practices is the key to prevention and control of cockroaches and other pests. By concentration on thorough and frequent cleaning, the entrance of cockroaches will be highly unlikely.

> Good sanitation is the best control

> Clean up spills immediately; particularly in dark or dimly lit areas. All waste food scraps and particles must be disposed of promptly; do not allow scraps or crumbs to accumulate anywhere. Do not allow dirty, unwashed dishes to sit overnight.

> Eliminate and prevent an accumulation of empty boxes, containers, boards, unserviceable equipment, etc.

> Carefully inspect all boxes, crates, and bags brought into your home or establishment.

> Keep basements, storage areas, and other inconspicuous areas, dry, clean, ventilated, and well lit.

> Remove all standing water, repair leaking pipes, clean sinks, and prevent an accumulation of liquids on any surfaces.
 
How Can I Get Rid of Cockroaches?

 Once infestation occurs, it generally requires the use of pesticides. Remember pesticides are poison!

Pesticides are available specifically for the removal of cockroaches. If you are attempting to get rid of cockroaches yourself, be sure to read and follow all label directions carefully. Do not apply pesticides on any food service area. Self-application of pesticides can not replace the expertise of a licensed Pest Control Company, and most people find it easier to hire a professional for this task.

** IMPORTANT NOTICE TO FOOD SERVICE ESTABLISHMENTS **

 UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE YOU ALLOWED TO ATTEMPT TO RID YOUR ESTABLISHMENT OF BUGS, PESTS, OR RODENTS BY YOUR OWN MEANS. PER THE PUBLIC HEALTH CODE, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL LICENSED PEST CONTROL COMPANY FOR THIS TASK. IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE OR CLARIFICATION ON THIS RULE, PLEASE CONTACT US VIA THE INFORMATION BELOW.


Contact Us

 To receive more information, or assistance with cockroach removal advice, call or visit us at:

Clinton County Health Department
Environmental Unit
135 Margaret Street
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
Tel: (518) 565-4870
 

 

             Note:  These are external web links.           

                     

Clinton County does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision
of services. The information on the Clinton County Health Department website is for educational purposes only. Nothing on the pages of this site shall be construed
as medical, fitness, dietetic, or other professional advice. This information is based on current beliefs among researchers and research studies published in the
current scientific literature. Clinton County is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse any content on external web links.

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