The American cockroach can reach up to three inches long, and you can also identify this cockroach because they are a reddish-brown color with a greasy sheen. They also have six legs and wings that lay flat on their backs, and their bodies are long and oval-shaped.

What Makes American Cockroaches So Dangerous?

While you’ve probably heard that cockroaches are unsanitary and know you don’t want them around your food, they are more disgusting than you’d think. While any pest that gets into a food can contaminate it, the American cockroach can spread many diseases to humans including salmonellosis, typhoid fever, cholera, gastroenteritis, and dysentery. Not all cockroach infestations will lead to illness, but with any infestation, there is always a risk.

On top of being able to transmit pathogens, American cockroaches can also cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks in some people. The risk is higher for those who have underlying medical conditions.

How Can Cockroaches Be Prevented?

While American cockroaches can be difficult to completely deter, there are some steps you can take to keep them out. The best way to approach cockroach prevention is to address the elements around your property that attract them in the first place.

Here are four of the best and easiest ways to deter cockroaches in The Villages, FL:

1. Clean up food sources. Cockroaches are attracted to even small crumbs of food. So, start by always cleaning up food and drink spills and make sure to sweep and mop regularly. Also, don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink.
2. Take care of trash. Cockroaches are also attracted to garbage, so always take out the trash regularly and cover all trash cans with lids. This includes both indoor and outdoor garbage.
3. Keep cockroaches from getting inside by sealing up entry points. You can start by fixing broken screens and then use caulk and foam to fill up holes in the wall. Lastly, place weatherstripping and door sweeps around the property.
4. Inspect cardboard boxes before bringing them inside as this is a common place where cockroaches hide.

Can You Get Rid Of Cockroaches On Your Own?

While some property owners try to handle cockroach control on their own, this is rarely a good idea. It can be dangerous and expensive to try to remove cockroaches without experience, and most of the time DIY methods don’t work.

Instead, let the professionals at Bertram Pest Solutions provide ongoing American cockroach assistance. With over 20 years of experience, we will remove any cockroach infestation in a safe, reliable manner. We offer both residential and commercial pest control plans, and you can get started with a free inspection by contacting us at (352) 608-5010.