Do you Remember These PESTY Games?

Most children asked for some type of electronic toy this holiday season.  A lot games are played through a video console.   The majority of children may not remember these old timers, but who out there received these toys and games for Christmas in the past?  Are there any other classics that Suburban forgot?  If you think of any, visit us on facebook or twitter to let us know! http://www.facebook.com/SuburbanExterminating or @SuburbanExterm at www.twitter.com.


Perhaps next year we can start a revival for these landmarks:
Mouse Trap

• Came to the market in 1963.
• Object: First build an elaborate mouse trap, and then try of capture your opponents’ mice in the trap.
• Winner is first to capture all the mice in the trap.

Ants in the Pants 

Games found at a local Target: They are still out there!

• Came to the market in 1969.
• Object: Fling plastic, color-coded ants into a giant pair of pants.  
• First player to get all their ants in the pants wins.

Cootie 

• Came to the market in 1949.
• Object: Build bugs named “cooties” one body part at a time.  
• Winner is the first to build a complete Cootie.  
• Herb Schaper was a Minnesotan postman who created, developed, and manufactured children's games, most with a bug theme.   He formed the H. W. Schaper Mfg. Co., Inc. to manufacture and publish the game Cootie. Schaper sold 5,000 Cootie games by 1950, and over 1.2 million games by 1952.

Bed Bugs

• Came to the market in 1958.
• A motorized game where a “bed” game board bounces colored bed bugs around.
• Object: Collect colored bed bugs with plastic tongs.
• Winner is the first player to collect all their bed bugs first.

Suburban hopes all our customers and neighbors had a very happy holiday season and continue on to a safe a healthy New Year!

Pantry Pests at the Holidays

Uncovered cookies may lead to bugs or rodents!

Suburban Exterminating has some advice to avoid any major pest problems when baking and cooking for your holidays this year.  Of course, should you find yourself facing any pest control problems, Suburban is open every day this holiday season, except Christmas Day and December 26th, New Year’s Day and January 2nd, to help you make the most of the 2011 holiday season.

Holiday Baking and Cooking
Abundant food supplies in pantries, sweet cookies left out for Santa, and food-based decorations are a rodent’s or insect’s Christmas wishes come true.  “Pantry pests”, like ants, weevils and beetles, love to eat rich, carbohydrate-heavy holiday foods. Rodents are attracted to these foods, as well. 
The best defense against these nuisances is cleanliness, as well as:

• Store loose food items (flour, rice, cereals) in tightly-sealed plastic or glass containers.

• Do not mix old and new food items and clean containers regularly.

• Keep cabinets and pantries dry. 

• Keep counter tops clean and free of crumbs and spills.

• Throw out expired food, or ones showing signs of mold.

• Cover cookies in plastic wrap or store in plastic containers.

Decorations
Many people use food as decorations for their homes at the holidays.  Gingerbread houses, popcorn garland, candy canes and other sweets will only attract pests.  If you do notice any insects or rodents after putting out these decorations, throw them out right away!  Suburban Exterminating recommends using plastic decorations and saving the sweets for eating.

Suburban wishes your family a happy, healthy holiday season, free of pest control concerns, but reminds its customers that we are on call!  Let us take care of your exterminations, just leave us a few cookies

Holiday Travelers can Avoid Bed Bugs

During the holidays, people traveling can bring bed bugs back home.  Online shopping also creates the possibility of the spread of bed bugs.  Bed bugs have become a national epidemic.  Suburban Exterminating is expertly trained to remove bed bugs from your home, but here are a few tips to avoid a bed bug infestation during the holidays.

When traveling, here are some tips to avoid bringing bed bugs home:

• Before you book a hotel, check any bed bug hotel registries to see if your hotel has been infested at any point within that last couple of weeks.  While many hotels do not get removed from these lists, you can see if there was a recent outbreak.
• Once in your hotel conduct a thorough inspection of area around the headboard.
• Keep all luggage and carry-on bags off the floors, beds and out of closets. The safest spots are a table or desk or the bathroom floor. If you have a garment bag, place it over the door and keep it zipped.  
• Don’t bring luggage inside your home.  Empty them outside.
• Wash all your clothes as soon as possible in hot water.

Online shopping has changed the way we shop for holiday gifts.  The convenience of not having to wait on long lines at malls while getting exactly what you need outweighs any shipping fees.  However, be careful when purchasing items from websites like eBay or Craigslist.  Non-retail sites or used goods could spread bed bugs.

• Pick an area in your home to inspect all delivered packages. Discard boxes and wrapping in a garbage bag.
• Avoid buying used clothes, bedding or furniture.  Wash these purchases as soon as possible if you do buy them online.
• Make sure you’re buying from a reputable source.

Because bed bugs are not a public health issue, most government agencies issue a “Buyer Beware” warning.  Be proactive in your bed bug protection, but be informed, as well.  There are many pesticides you can buy to get rid of bed bugs, but there are many dangers in self-application.  There is also no standardization in these pesticides, and the claims of the product do not have to be proven.

If your suspect that you have bed bugs, the best solution is to call Suburban Exterminating at (516) or (631) 864-6900.  The holidays can be stressful. Following these tips so hopefully you can avoid a bed bug infestation.  Happy Holidays from Suburban Exterminating!

Is Long Island Ready for the Cold?

Our first newsletter!

Employee Spotlight: Phil D

Phil D: Here to protect you from pests!

Phil is a Pest Control technician for Suburban Exterminating who truly enjoys his job.   He knows Suburban as group of “team players who work together.”  Phil is not only thankful to be a Suburban employee, but he is thankful to have met his “his better half”, Barbara, a customer service representative at Suburban!  Phil says “Barbara knows her pest control stuff, too!”

Q: What is your earliest pest memory?

A: My dad was the hero at my house in Huntington Station. He captured a rat!

Q: What is your most surprising pest encounter?

A: At a Glen Head home, a squirrel was running around in an attic. The squirrel kept popping his head up to see me!

Q: What is the pest you secretly love?

A: The rat, because it is very curious

Q: What do you find most fascinating about insects?

A: They are biologically interesting and, this may seem crazy, but I think they are cute.

Q: How do you reassure someone who is frightened of a rodent or insect?

A: I remind them that Suburban is here to take care of the problem, which means no more worrying.  Not only do we offer great services, but Suburban is a great company to work for!

Q: What are your interests outside of work?

A: I like to go surf fishing and spending time with my family.

Phil, your customers are lucky to have such a dedicated employee at their homes!

How Green Pest Control Works

 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is Suburban Exterminating’s green solution. IPM includes inspection, monitoring and prevention, before applying pesticides. In addition, our customers can choose certified green pesticides.  


Suburban Exterminating technicians inspect a person’s home before making treatment decisions. Inspection is the 1st step of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) solutions.   Suburban stops trouble before it happens by  blocking the common entrances pests use to enter, like cracks in foundations, garage doors and broken screens


Suburban technicians are specially trained in applying Green Certified pesticides and all pesticides.  If there is a need for treatment, our technicians know to treat “smart”, using pesticides that reduce the chance of people, kids and pets being exposed.  We are always looking for new technology and methods with constant training and a wide range of problem solving skills. Call (516) or (631) 864-6900 to learn about Suburban Exterminating’s wide variety of green methods of pest control. 


As one of the  first “Green Shield” certified company in New York State. We constantly improve our “green” methods of pest control.  Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is pest control’s green solution. IPM includes inspection, monitoring and prevention, before applying  pesticides.  We have been a member of the Long Island business community for over 50 years, and aim to make this part of New York a safe and inviting one.  Call Suburban if you have any questions about our Green Services, or visit http://www.greenexterminating.com for an in depth description of our green mission for Long Island.

Protect Against Unwanted Holiday Pests

Despite the fact that Christmas commercials have been running and holiday decorations have been up in stores since Halloween, it is now officially time to start turning your home into a winter wonderland.  Suburban Exterminating has some advice to avoid any major pest problems when decorating for your holidays this year.  


There is still plenty of time to schedule a home inspection and winterize your house.  This is the best pest prevention method.  Capping chimneys, filling in entry holes, replacing old weather stripping and screens will give you peace of mind that you’ve made the best effort to control a potential infestation.  Call Suburban Exterminating at (516) or (631) 864-6900 to schedule an appointment before the holiday rush.


Holiday Decorations
Because the last time you may have looked in your attic, basement or crawl space storage area was last year, you may not have noticed the signs of a pest problem.  To avoid future issues, follow these practices in storing holiday decorations:

• Rodents and insects can chew through cardboard boxes and this may result in throwing out family heirlooms and treasures.  Try plastic containers with tight-sealing lids.
• Linens, stockings, tree skirts and seasonal clothing should be stored in plastic bags.  Make sure you have fully washed, dried and inspected the items before storing them.
• Inspect decorations each year for mold or damage. Since mold and moisture attract pests, it's best to throw out those items.
• Look over wreaths, Christmas trees and garland to make sure you’re not bringing insects into your home.

Roaring fires are a beautiful addition to any holiday and instantly add warmth and light.  However, they can also add bugs or termites in your house.  To prevent insects in your fire place:

• Store wood outdoors, off the ground and away from the house.  
• Dry wood quickly after cutting.
• Cut firewood when insects are least active, like the winter months.
• Don’t spray: you run the risk of creating fumes as you burn pesticide-soaked wood. Chemicals can also force insects to burrow deeper into wood. 

Suburban Exterminating wishes all of our customers a happy, healthy holiday season.  During this joyous time of year, we want to thank all those who have trusted Suburban to provide expert pest control solutions during the year.  We look forward to working with you in again 2012, but remind you that we are still on call this holiday season, should the need for pest control arise.

Port Jefferson Dickens Festival Supported by Suburban Exterminating Services

December 2, 2011
Smithtown, NY
For Immediate Release 


Suburban Exterminating Provides Pest Control Services for Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson
Beginning December 2, 2011 and running through December 4, 2011, the Charles Dickens Festival will be held in the Town of Port Jefferson.  Suburban Exterminating is proud to be providing rodent control services for the 16th annual festival.  Our goal is to allow our neighbors and customers to enjoy the festivities, foods and fun, and forget about the potential pests problems.


Suburban Exterminating has proved an industry leader in pest control and has successfully worked with the community for over 50 years.  Our services for events like the Dickens Festival eliminate the fear of health code violations, the spread of disease or panic through the crowds of people.  While it may not be the most glamorous job, it is an important one.  Suburban Exterminating’s pest control solutions allow for you to enjoy this holiday festivity with your families, pest free! 


The Dickens Festival begins with an opening ceremony on Friday, December 2nd at 5:30pm.  The town of Port Jefferson will be transformed into the Victorian village of the classic novel A Christmas Carol.  Characters will be dressed in traditional Victorian clothing and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future will be haunting the streets, as well as Ebenezer Scrooge.   There will be performances, shopping, charity opportunities and many more family-friendly events through out the weekend.  For more information on the Dickens Festival, visit http://www.portjeff.com/events/dickens-festival.


Suburban Exterminating Service Inc.
879 W Jericho Twpke
Smithtown, NY  11787
(631) or (516) 864-6900
Fax: (631) 864-2889
www.suburbanexterminating.com
Follow us: @SuburbanExterm
Facebook page: Suburban Exterminating

Ultimate Rat Trap

Imagine that phone call. 

"Hello, a rat in your home has been caught!" 

Well, imagine no more!

Long Islanders, call Suburban Exterminating 864-6900 for more information. This system could be your Best Protection for the wiring in your computer room, bank, school, jet.

Suburban Exterminating Holiday FOOD DRIVE with The INN

Suburban's elves get into the holiday spirit by giving back to Long Island's needy!

Suburban Exterminating is proud to announce that we will be participating in a Food Drive this holiday season for the benefit of The INN.  From November 28 through December 16, 2011, Suburban will be collecting nonperishable packaged food and canned goods. Suburban has been reaching out to The INN through Twitter recently, and together we’ve found a great project to benefit the needy people of Long Island at this special time of year.


The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network) addresses the issues of hunger and homelessness on Long Island by providing food, shelter, long-term housing, and supportive services in a dignified and respectful manner. Founded in 1983, The INN is a not-for-profit, volunteer-based organization with a dedicated staff, a broad base of community support and a commitment to educate the public about these issues.   For further information on The INN, how to help, donate or volunteer, visit www.the-inn.org, or contact the Communications Department for information at 516.486.8506 ext 115. The demand for food items is greater than ever.  You donations make it possible to feed The INN’s guests.  


In the spirit of this giving season, Suburban Exterminating asks its employees, customers and neighbors to donate canned and nonperishable foods and goods.  Some suggestions are canned vegetables, meats, fish, fruits and soups.  Dry goods such as pasta, rice and cereal are also needed.  Because there are almost 110,000 Long Island children who face hunger every day, dry milks, almond milk or soy milk are of great importance.  As well, baby formula, diapers and personal hygiene items are always in demand.  Please NO GLASS containers, as these may break.


There will be designated boxes through out the Suburban office to make your donation.  For monetary donations and further information, call Bob Wiemer at (631) 864-6900 or email bwiemer@suburbanexterminating.com.

Look for these donation boxes around the Suburban Exterminating offices to donate canned goods and nonperishable goods 

Suburban Exterminating Technicians on the Job

It’s time to show our Technicians some Appreciation!  Suburban Exterminating built a reputation as experts in all phases of pest control on Long Island, in part, based on the feedback we receive from our customers!  Feedback on all levels helps us customize our services to better meet the needs of our clients.


 Employee of the Month for August, Andy K. was praised by a Stony Brook client, saying that he was wonderful, great and “[That] Calling Suburban was the best investment [she] ever made.”   Responses like these make us proud of the work the technicians do.  


Techs come to a customer’s home when they are either scared or angry at the pest infestation and the first impression the technician makes is a reflection of the entire company of Suburban Exterminating.  A St. James customer reported that Dave S. “Explained to me what he was doing every step of the way and made me feel comfortable that the problem was being taken care of.  He was also very courteous to me and my wife.”  Tony A. was complimented for his work at a Holbrook home, being called a “real gentleman”.  Rich S. was complimented by a Muttontown client for doing a wonderful job.  The customer followed up by saying “He is the only one I want coming here.”   Most recently, Rich was written a note by a Huntington customer, complimenting him on his personal service.  She wrote, “…Thank you for so much for always getting back to me quickly and always answering my questions.”


Similar remarks of professional, knowledgeable and thorough techs are common. One of the best ways customers can show their appreciation of Suburban Exterminating’s technicians is voting for us as the best extermination company on Long Island!  Go to http://vote.longislandpress.com/engine/YourSubmission.aspx?contestid=40968 to vote!


Suburban Exterminating technicians go through extensive certification and training.  At a recent training session, the techs and managers gathered to learn new methods of pest control and brush up on their skills. Topics covered were rodent control in the winter months, new bed bug detection devices and mold sampling.  These sessions are a useful way to also comment on any issues or concerns the technicians face out on the road every day. Way to go to all of our technicians for their hard work and dedication!

Home Invasion by Mice this Winter: How to keep mice out and keep your family safe

Mice look for warm, dry places to nest in the winter months.  Most mice will nest less than 30 feet from an available food source.  In homes, mice can not only spread disease and contamination, but they can cause significant damage to wires and structural support. The dangers facing your family are real and their removal is best left to the professionals.  Call (631) or (516) 864-6900 for mice removal.


Most Common Mice Found in Your Home

Deer Mouse –

• Varies in color but will have white feet.  
• Will breed 3-4 times with at least 3 offspring.  
• They are active year round. 

This type of mouse became a household name when public health officials determined the deer mouse is most associated with the transmission of the Hantavirus.  Hantavirus is transmitted through inhaling the droppings and urine of infected mice.  Sixty percent of all cases are fatal. In the fall and winter, deer mice enter houses, garages, and campers and other infrequently used vehicles.  Once inside these areas, they can cause significant damage to furnishings and stored materials as they search for food and construct their nests.

House Mouse –

• The most common mice that seek shelter in homes.  
• Small, grey bodies; pointed nose and big ears.  Tail can be   as long as the body.  
• Can reproduce 8 times a year with up 8 offspring per litter.  
• Good jumpers; can fit through small spaces; very curious, social creatures. 

House mice prefer to nest in dark secluded areas where there is little chance of disturbance, and in areas where nesting materials, such as paper, cardboard, attic insulation, cotton, etc., are readily available.  They nibble on food, preferring items such as seeds and cereals.  They feed at dusk and just before dawn. The major health risks associated with house mice are salmonella contamination and leptospirosis, a bacterial infection.


Protecting your home against potential mice infestations is the best way to ensure the health of your family.  Suburban Exterminating offers all phases of pest control to most of Long Island.  Visit us at www.suburbanexterminating.com for a list of all our service and a free estimate on pest control solutions.  


Suburban Exterminating offers a “Winterization” package that pest-proofs your home for the colder months.  An expertly trained technician will seal up holes/points of entry, replace old weather stripping on garage doors, perform an inspection to check for droppings and urine, and correctly identify the pest.  This is the season to enjoy time at home with your loved ones. The health and safety of your family and customer satisfaction is Suburban’s ultimate goal.  

Attending the Entomology Society of America Meeting

The Entomology Society of America meets annually to exchange information, products, and the latest information on insects. The Entomology Society of America meets annually to exchange information, products, and the latest information on insects. Suburban Exterminating’s Technical Director, Mr. Lynn Frank is attending this year’s Annual Meeting of the Entomology Society of America in Reno, NV.

Lynn Frank is a certified entomologist and member of Pi Chi Omega, the professional fraternity for pest control. He possesses a Vector Borne Disease Control Certificate from the Center for Disease Control; he is a certified indoor environmental consultant and a level III certified thermographer from the Infraspection Institute. He is also Green Shield Certified.Mr. Frank is a frequent speaker informing Long Island homeowners about green exterminating and bed bugs.

Lynn, we can’t wait to hear what you’ve learned from the important meeting! 

Part of Lynn Frank's Bug Collection

More of Bug Collection

Commercial Properties: Rats in Your Office or Restaurant

In offices and restaurants, rats can contaminate food, gnaw through walls and wires, and generally wreak havoc. They are difficult creatures to capture, so it is best left to the professionals. Suburban Exterminating serves most of Long Island and guarantees removal to give you peace of mind. Call (631) or (516) 864-6900 for rat removal.

In Your Office

Recent generations of rodents are not as fearful of human interaction and will test their limits in your territories. Rats can be quite smart and traditional trapping methods will not always work. While cleanliness will not keep rodents away, less clutter will give them less places to nest. Rats and other rodents in the office are a direct result of a constant food source. It is best to not eat at your desk, to clean regularly and not to store boxes. In industrial offices, pallets and boxes should not be kept too close to the walls.

In a Restaurant

Special attention to product selection is necessary for eliminating rodents in restaurants. The best results are achieved by killing rodents before they enter the building and maintaining a clean property. Keep dumpsters as clean as possible and cut grass and weeds along fence rows where rodents might hide or enter the property.

Norway Rat: Most Common Rodent at Commercial Properties –

• Norway or Brown rat is the largest of the commensal (living in close proximity with humans) rats.
• In every continent except Antarctica.
• Can produce up to 6 litters a year, but rarely live longer than 12 months.
• Have poor eyesight, but keen sense of smell.
• In buildings they prefer to nest in the lower levels like crawlspaces, basements, loading docks and sewers.
• They prefer meat, fish, and cereals. Their foraging range is 100 to 150 feet from their nest.

Rats are associated with various diseases and occasionally bite. Plague is no longer a major concern because it has not occurred in rats in the United States for many years. However, leptospirosis is a great fear. This disease is acquired by eating food and drinking water which are contaminated with infected rat urine. Rats also cause significant structural damage and product destruction.

Nesting wild animals leave droppings which need to be removed and the area sanitized. Suburban Exterminating will clean these hazardous materials and will also offer a consultation with one of our carpenters to repair any structural damage. Suburban Exterminating offers a wide range of competitive pest control services to meet the needs of commercial, retail and industrial operations in both the private and public sectors. To read about Suburban Exterminating's entire commercial services visit http://www.suburbanexterminating.com/services/Commerical-72.asp. Our operators are ready to place your service call seven days a week. Don’t let a small creature become a huge problem to your business!

Quality Pest Control for Busy Long Islanders

Long Islanders are busy!  Busy people need quality pest control services.  Our educated staff and guaranteed services are the best on Long Island.

All customers can call to schedule service from 7 am to 10 pm Monday through Friday.  And if you’ve forgotten to schedule that pest control service call during the week, call on Saturday from 7 am to 4 pm or Sunday 9 am to 2 pm.  

We’re thinking of our customer’s busy lives.  

Schedule your service call with Suburban Exterminating

Nassau (516) 864-6900

Suffolk (631) 864-6900

Hamptons (631) 287-3810 

Pest Control  7 days a week!

Critter Culprits: Groundhogs Want to Feast on your Garden before Hibernation

One of the nuisance critter found on Long Island is the groundhog. Groundhogs, also called woodchucks or land beavers, are a part the rodent family, most closely linked to squirrels. They are herbivores, feasting on grass, vegetation and berries. Groundhogs have become a nuisance for local farmers and people with year-round gardens, looking for food. Since groundhogs hibernate in the winter months, they bulk up before they burrow underground. Most hibernation periods range from late October to March/April.

Groundhog nests can be as much as 5 feet deep and are complicated mazes up to 40 feet long to multiple exits. These web-like burrows can cause structural damage to buildings and foundations, as well as disturb the agricultural and residential development. Though they appear to be portly creatures, groundhogs are quite agile, able to climb and swim away from potential predators.

In late October, Quantico Marine Corps Base reported an overwhelming population of groundhogs. The local golf course, in Virginia, had minor success in the extermination of the groundhogs, but was unsure of exactly how many were under ground in the burrows. The grounds keeper is quoted as saying “In addition to damaging the landscaping, the tunnels can cause structural issues and damage utilities when they are under and around buildings.” To read an article on the effect of groundhogs on an area, go to http://www2.insidenova.com/news/2011/oct/24/7/furry-ground-troops-swarm-quantico-ar-1406122/

They may seem daunting to deter, but groundhogs are timid creatures. Several simple steps can keep them away from a year-round garden.

• Smell/Taste – Groundhogs do not like spicy foods or smells. A few of these tips could trick the groundhog that your garden is not for public consumption
• sprinkle spices around the edge of garden bed
• Spray tops of vegetation with a hot sauce and water dilution

• Motion/Noise—The movement of certain animals and birds will naturally keep a groundhog away from an area, but to keep other pest out as well:
• Place paper/plastic windmills around the garden. These are cheap and will stop an above ground attack.
• String a bell garland around the perimeter of your garden.
• Use wind chimes to keep out all timid pests

Groundhogs are not the only pest this time of year to begin seeking homes for the winter. To keep unwanted house guests out call for a professional assessment of your home and property.

Suburban’s professional pest inspection involves:

• Identifying the nuisance wildlife.

• Locating entry points on the structure if possible.

• Recognizing contributing environmental factors.

For more information on animal trapping for your home, visit http://www.suburbanexterminating.com/services/Nuisance-Wildlife-78.asp. If your home has suffered any damage from groundhogs, or any wildlife creature, we can repair those damages. We have carpenters on staff to restore the area to its natural state and prevent future issues. Call for your free estimate today, (631) or (516) 864-6900 or read about all our services at http://www.suburbanexterminating.com/services.asp.

Suburban Technicians, Trained to be the Best in the Business

On October 31, 2011, a technician training was held for Suburban Technicians, managers and supervisors. This training is held to keep the techs “in the know” of all innovations, safety requirements and to give credits towards their certifications. This month, the focus was pest control issues that arise in the fall and early winter. The techs, managers and supervisors gathered for a day full of informative speakers and material.

The training began with a review of safety instructions and truck inspections. Each technician is the face of Suburban Exterminating and must present himself as a knowledgeable professional. Following this, there were three speakers, addressing various issues and topics. Mike C. spoke for an hour in further detail on safety requirements and truck inspections. Ben N. covered Rodent Control and Servicing Issues. Rodents searching for warm places to nest for the winter are a major issue for customers this time of year. Finally, Billy S. led an important session on CO2, mold sampling, FMC Traps and Plant Bugs. Each technician is required a certain number of credits beyond their initial certification, and these training classes fulfill those requirements.

All training sessions cover customer service, pest identification, and home inspections, making for the most expertly trained pest control technicians on Long Island. Customer satisfaction is the top priority for all Suburban employees. Training sessions are a helpful tool in creating the best possible team. All attendees learned something new in science of pest control.

UPDATE: Pictures of training

Critter Culprit: Raccoons: Biggest Home Invader

Raccoons are the number one invaders of homes and buildings. They can tear open garbage cans to scrounge for food. They can rip open vents and window screens looking for an entry into attics and basements. Raccoons can build large nests in chimneys. They are strong, agile creatures, able to crawl into small spaces, setting up a home for the winter in your home.

There are a dozen other methods in which a raccoon will find entry into your home, and the end result is usually the same: damage, destruction and danger. Raccoons are similar to bears; they have bad attitudes and won’t stop in their search for food and shelter. It is best to never provoke a raccoon. If you suspect raccoons in your home or business, call a professional right away! Some of the best methods of prevention are the simplest:

• Keep a tight lid on trash cans. Store them indoors or in special containers until they need to go out in the morning.
• Keep pet food indoors at all times.
• Cap all chimneys.
• Secure air vents and replace any broken screens.
• Replace weather stripping on garage doors and keep them closed when not in use.
• Trim back any tree branches that hang over the roof.

The presence of raccoons in a home or business is visible through the destruction and damage. Raccoons will rip apart insulation, roofing and attic floor boards to create a den. The droppings and urine will not only stain ceilings and walls, but obviously create a health hazard. Nassau County recently began a rabies vaccine “baiting” program to get rid of rabies in area raccoons. There are several other parasites and diseases that can be transmitted by raccoons, such as, fleas, ticks, lice, round-worms, tapeworms, distemper, tuberculosis, and mange. It is important to keep pets away from raccoons, not only for their protection, but to prevent provoking the raccoons to attack.

All of Suburban’s pest control services come with a guarantee that, from start to finish, a solution will be found. Protect your home and business this winter from a raccoon invasion. Call (631) or (516) 864-6900 for a free estimate or read about all our services at www.suburbanexterminating.com.

Vote for Suburban Exterminating for Best Exterminator

Once again, Suburban Exterminating has been nominated for The Long Island Press’s annual “Best of Long Island” series for Best Exterminator. The results are based of customer votes. The poles remain open until December 15, 2011. You can vote several times from several locations. Get out there and show us how much you appreciate Suburban Exterminating by voting for Suburban as Best Exterminator! So, what are you waiting for; show us your love with votes!

Dire

ctions for Voting for SUBURBAN EXTERMINATING as Best Exterminator in Long Island Press “Best of Long Island 2012”:

1. Go to
   http://vote.longislandpress.com/engine/YourSubmission.aspx?contestid=40968
2. Scroll down to EXTERMINATOR category
3. Click SUBURBAN EXTERMINATING –Smithtown
4. At bottom of the page, click AGREE and ENTER NOW

Thanks for voting for Suburban Exterminating!

The Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Exterminating

Many people have taken it upon themselves to try “at home” extermination remedies, but the Center for Disease Control and Prevention found there was a rise in accidental poisonings. A national report detailed 111 toxic exposures between 2003 and 2011 when dealing with bed bugs. Eighty nine of these cases were in New York. In January, The Wall Street Journal reported that bed bugs are developing enzymes to protect themselves against pesticides.“In New York City, bedbugs now are 250 times more resistant to the standard pesticide than bedbugs in Florida, due to changes in a gene controlling the resilience of the nerve cells targeted by the insecticide, researchers at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst recently reported.” Lab tests show that bed bugs can survive 1,000 times the lethal dose of pesticides from 10 years ago.

The dangers of overdoing it in at-home extermination do not lie simply with bed bugs. There are many other pest controls that can cause toxic exposure if not handled by the professionals. Additionally, many pest’s waste will cause damage to your home and could be detrimental to you health. In June 2011, a Montauk man died from overexposure to toxic mice droppings. Hantavirus is a lung infection caused by materials found in rodent droppings, urine and saliva that are breathed in. While this recent case is very rare, avoid the risk of exposure by calling professional exterminators.

There are a few ways to avoid toxic exposure to at-home pesticides, but the safest bet is to call the professionals if you suspect an infestation.

• Don’t over apply insecticides.
• Always wash treated bedding/areas.
• Wear gloves and a mask when treating areas of suspected rodent infestation. Wash your hands thoroughly after using any “over the counter” pesticide.
• If you experience any nausea, vomiting, dizziness or respiratory irritation after applying insecticides, seek the advice of a professional.
• Call Suburban Exterminating for a free estimate if you suspect you have bed bugs. (631) or (516) 864-6900.

Call a professional to avoid all fears of do-it-yourself extermination!

Craig Byer Elected to the AAS Board

We, at Suburban, extend our warmest congratulations to Craig Byer for his recent election to the AAS board. This is a prestigious honor and we know that he will continue to excel at his career! For a detailed account of Craig’s work and passion with honeybees, check out www.longislandhoneybees.com. This site has great information about the life, work habits and social interaction of honeybees, as well as fun facts! There have been many famous beekeepers over the years, including Aristotle, Ben Franklin and Brigham Young. We’d like to add Craig’s name to these great beekeepers!

Bed Bugs: A Rise in Population in College Dorms

One large area of the population dealing with bed bugs is college dorms. These insects are not a sign of uncleanliness. They do not pose any major medical dangers from their bites and aren’t known to transmit diseases, but their bites can be extremely itchy. Only about half of people dealing with bed bug issues report a reaction to the bites, but just because your roommate in nonreactive, does not mean that you don’t have bed bugs and that they won’t come after you next!

Bed bugs are best described as hitchhikers. They, and their eggs, stick to any surface to travel to new hosts and wreak new havoc. They can travel on clothes and can stick to small cracks and crevices.

Top Ways to Prevent the Spread of Bed Bugs:

1. Thoroughly check everything you bring into your room.
2. Picking up furniture left out for disposal is no bargain. Though it may look clean or near new, it could be teeming with bed bugs or their eggs!
3. Hang up clothes, back packs, purses and jackets on hooks or in the closet. Bed bugs cling to cloth best and can travel quickly from the pile of clothes on the floor/chair/bed.
4. Buy a zippered mattress encasement. If the mattress is infested they can’t get out and eventually die.
5. Look for them! Bed bugs are tiny, reddish-brown in color, flat, apple-seed-shaped bugs. You may not be able to notice them until you are bitten, which will cause itching, like mosquitoes. You may also notice small blood stains on your sheets, mattress or clothes. Their waste will also be visible around the edges of a mattress as a sticky red/brown paste.
6. Skip the sprays! In the case of dorm infestation, call an RA or those in charge. And, keep calling until you get the response you need!

Your best defense in dealing with bed bugs is to call professional help. Suburban Exterminating has been in business since 1960 and are experts in all phases of pest control. If you even have to question whether or not you have bed bugs, call for a free evaluation and estimate. (631) 864-6900 or (516) 864-6900.

Giant Alien Snails Found in Miami Area

October 4, 2011 -- The Wall Street Journal ran a story this morning on “giant alien snails” that have invaded the Miami area.  They are said to have originated in Africa and may have been smuggled into the States for religious rituals.  The snails can grow up to eight inches long and can lay up 1,200 eggs in a year.  They are extremely dangerous due to their ability to chew through plants, plaster and stucco and can sometimes carry a parasite linked to nonlethal meningitis in humans.  As many New Yorkers prepare to head south for the winter, be aware of these snails, don’t keep them as pets and if you have any doubts in how to handle them, call the authorities.  Any damages that may occur to your home should be handled by the professionals.

Source: Wall Street Journal

Preventing Pests at Home

Winterizing your home is the best bet to protecting yourself against insects, mice, rats, squirrels and raccoons that are looking for comfortable places to live in the winter.  There are a few tricks you can do yourself, but the surest way is to trust the experts at Suburban Exterminating.  Our technicians are trained to protect your home against pests. 

For your part:

• Always keep trash cans tightly closed to keep away rodents and wildlife. 

• Clean gutters of leaves, twigs and stagnant water where bugs can hibernate and gain sustenance. 

The experts at Suburban Exterminating can help you winterize your house and are the best defense in pest control.  Our technicians are trained to spot areas where insects, rodents or wildlife can enter your home.

• We fill any holes around pipes, vents or windows. 

• We make sure all vents and windows are screened, and will replace damaged, old or missing screens.  As a step further, we can caulk windows with a silicone frame to prevent any insects from entering.  (Plus, this may stop heat from escaping and lower your energy costs!)

• We place chimney caps and replace garage door weather stripping.  Both of these entrances to your home can lead to rodents and wildlife looking for warm, dry places to nest in the winter.

• We move your firewood away from the foundation and cut back any shrubs or bushes that will block the sun on your foundation, allowing it to dry properly.

All of these steps are important in winterizing a home.   Suburban’s teams are trained to spot possible problem areas where pests can enter.  Aside from being a nuisance, many insects, rodents, and wildlife can cause damage to your home, costing money in repairs.  Also, a lot of these pests carry disease, causing damage to your family, which is irreplaceable.  Call (631) or (516) 864-9600 for a free estimate and further information.