There is no doubt about it, the cockroaches are out in force in California this season. Residents have seen a significant rise in the number of roaches, and it’s becoming an overwhelming problem. Many Californians who have previously never had a problem with cockroaches, or had only seen them outside in the past, are now finding the unwelcome pests inside their homes.  Pest control professionals are busier than ever, doing their part to help alleviate the infestation, and put their customers’ minds at ease.

The infestation is due in large part to the drought that is plaguing California. The cockroaches, known for their extraordinary survival skills, are moving toward places where they can find water. They make their way toward any water source including irrigation systems, swimming pools, and leaky water pipes or faucets.

California has four types of cockroaches – the German cockroach, brown-banded cockroach, oriental cockroach, and the American cockroach. The German and brown-banded cockroaches are the most likely to become problematic, because they prefer to be indoors. The other two species – oriental and American – typically only cause problems in moist, humid areas.

These pests are not just unseemly in appearance; they can also pose a health threat. Cockroaches are commonly found in sewers where they come into contact with bacteria which can be transferred to food, or food preparation areas and utensils, potentially causing food poisoning in humans. Even more concerning is their ability to transmit such diseases as staphylococcus, streptococcus, hepatitis, typhoid and dysentery. They can also be a risk for people with allergies and asthma when they make their homes indoors.

Residents can take some preventative measures to make their homes less appealing to cockroaches. They like to make their homes in dark and moist places, and are active at night, so experts suggest that all damp or moist areas outside the home be monitored for signs of roaches, and dried out completely if possible. Stacked wood, piles of leaves, ground plants, and around swimming pools are places that are susceptible to cockroach infestation.

In addition to inspecting outside areas that might be attractive to roaches, it’s suggested that residents make sure that exterior doors and windows have weather stripping and any seals or cracks to the outside are sealed. Cockroaches can get through very narrow areas, so even the slightest opening is a risk. Also, use plugs or stoppers in all drains when not being used to prevent cockroaches from getting in that way.

Many times, an infestation of cockroaches is too much for homeowners to handle on their own, so it is always advisable to call a cockroach control expert to inspect and treat the home, and rid it of these nasty pests.