New Blog

Suburban Exterminating is proud to announce that we have a NEW blog 

https://www.suburbanexterminating.com/blog

 

We’ve done our spring cleaning a little early and updated our look.  All of your pest control questions can still be answered at www.SuburbanExterminating.com, but our weekly news, advice and stories will now be found at https://www.suburbanexterminating.com/blog.  Our bigger and better blog will bring you more posts, links to all our services, tips on avoiding pest problems and much more!  Come and join us and share your thoughts on our new design and our new content.  We want to hear from our loyal followers!

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Imitation is the Best Form of Flattery

Suburban Exterminating was one of the first companies to enroll in the Adopt a Highway program. Since the program’s start several years ago, we have sponsored Litter Removal signs along many miles of Long Island highways. If you are driving on Long Island, you have passed one of our signs, like the one pictured below.

Our friends at Arrow certainly noticed! We would like to congratulate them for embracing this worthy cause and choosing such a striking design.   “Imitation is the best form of flattery”  Charles Caleb Colton

Opossums on Long Island

Recently, a Suburban Exterminating customer called in reporting an opossum in her Brentwood home.  Most wildlife foundations do not recommend trying to get rid of a trapped opossum in your home by yourself.  Call a professional!  Read for further information on Suburban Exterminating’s nuisance wildlife removal solutions, or call (516) 864-6900 or (631) 864-6900 for a free estimate.

Opossum Facts

The Virginia opossum, most commonly seen in North America, is a “cousin” to the Australian possum.  It is a marsupial, but the similarities to kangaroos and koalas end there.  They are, generally, harmless, but can cause minor property damage looking for food.

• Opossums are nocturnal.  Unlike raccoons, they try and avoid humans and very rarely carry rabies because of a low body temperature.
• They may bite when approached by a predator, but prefer to “play possum”: appearing dead and emitting a decaying odor to keep intruders away.
• They eat cockroaches, crickets and beetles, snakes, slugs, mice, rats, rotting fruit, human garbage, dead animals and small reptiles. Because opossums eat so many pests, they have been called Nature’s Exterminators.
• Opossums have very poor eyesight and can only see about six inches in front of their noses.  They “see” with their keen sense of smell. 

Keeping Opossums Away

There are some very simple steps to keeping opossums away from your home:

• Keep pet food and water indoors, in a tightly sealed container.
• Clean your yard of rotting fruit.
• Keep a tight seal on garbage containers.
• Cover your pool in the winter and monitor that no opossum has fallen in looking for a drink.

Fumigation for Long Island’s Historic Homes and Artifacts

The Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport

Suburban Exterminating offers fumigation services in the maintenance and conservation of the historic and unique sites on Long Island.  The North Shore of the island, in particular, is dotted with the remarkable estates of the tycoons of the early 20th century, like Vanderbilt and Roosevelt.  There are dozens of museums, art galleries and parks built around these historic sites in hopes of preservation.   For more information on Suburban’s fumigation services, both commercial and residential, call (516) or (631) 864-6900.

Galleries and museums are prone to develop and transfer infestations because:

• They borrow objects from outside sources
• Have heavy foot traffic
• Have dark areas that harbor pests 
• They store undisturbed materials for long periods of time

At Suburban, trained, certified and licensed fumigation technicians are equipped in the latest technology of fumigation monitoring.  This process was designed to protect products:

1. in storage 
2. exhibits 
3. shipments

Personal collections are highly susceptible, as well, because they are not scrutinized as thoroughly as museum objects.  At the Suburban headquarters in Smithtown, there is a fumigation vault for personal collection.  The vault is 24’ long X 8’ wide X 8’ tall.  All suspected items can be brought to Suburban Exterminating directly for a fumigation treatment and protected with the care and handling your artifacts and prized possessions deserve.

For information about Suburban Exterminating, call (631) 864-6900 or (516) 864-6900

A Bed Bug Education: Long Island’s Best Weapon against Infestation

Suburban Exterminating, Long Island’s bed bug experts, have been battling bedbugs for years.  Bed bugs have become a national epidemic and scare millions of people.  Two of Suburban’s own entomologists continue to educate Long Islanders about bed bugs.  Bed Bug Informational sessions are scheduled in January at the Sayville and Bayport-Blue Point libraries. Long Islanders can ask questions, learn to correctly identify bed bugs and hear about the proven methods of extermination. 

Bed Bug before meal

Sayville Library on January 19, 2012 at 7:00pm.  88 Greene Avenue, Sayville, NY 11782 (631) 589-4440

Bayport-Blue Point Library on January 26, 2012 at 6:30pm. 203 Blue Point Avenue, Blue Point, NY 11715 (631) 363-6133

Two of Suburban Exterminating’s certified entomologists, Lynn Frank and Bob Wiemer, will be speaking about bedbugs at The Sayville Library and the Bayport Library in January. Frank and Wiemer are both certified entomologists and members of Pi Chi Omega, the professional fraternity for pest control. Frank 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. Wiemer is a member of the Entomological Society of America. He is also trained and certified for the Sentricon Termite System and Structural Fumigation. Both men have been presenters at Suburban Exterminating’s children’s library program “Future Scientists: Learn What It Takes to Become an Entomologist”.

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 also 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.

By offering correct information, answering questions in full detail, and calming the fears of the public on the spreading bed bug problem, Suburban Exterminating creates an educated consumer.  If you are interested in attending these information sessions, register at the library or call Bob Wiemer at (631) 864-6900.

About Suburban Exterminating Co, Inc.:  Established in 1960, Suburban Exterminating Co, Inc. (http://www.suburbanexterminating.com) is Long Island, New York’s leading full-service pest management company providing services in all phases of pest control to homes and businesses and is dedicated to exemplifying quality, professionalism and respect during the execution of a multitude of extermination services.  A recent recipient of the International Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Excellence Award, it was the first New York company to be certified as “Green Shield” making the company a leader in environmental stewardship.  We service all of Suffolk county and Nassau county east from the Meadowbrook Parkway.

Education at 2012 Purdue Pest Management Conference

Lynn Frank, one of Suburban Exterminating’s resident entomologists, is attending the Purdue Pest Management Conference this week.   At the conference, experts will be speaking about the most up-to-date findings about cockroach control, improved Integrated Pest Management (Green exterminating), ant proofing a home and many other topics. 

The Purdue Pest Management Conference is attended by nearly 700 people from around the world. The Conference provides information to urban and industrial pest control professionals.  Held at Perdue University, the Conference attendees include outstanding speakers and industry leaders. 

Suburban Exterminating continues to educate ourselves and Long Island on the best ways to get rid of pests!  Do you have any questions about pest control? Want to hear from experts? Call Suburban Exterminating  (631) 864-6900 or (516) 864-6900

Pest Control in the New Year!

Happy 2012!  Suburban wishes all of our customers a very happy and healthy New Year and hope that your holiday season was blessed and stress free!  Did anyone make a New Year’s resolution?  If so, did you include pest control in your resolution?  There are major health issues associated with pests in your home, so consider adding a visit from Suburban Exterminating to your list of resolutions.


Winterization
With such a mild early winter, many people may have not yet winterized their homes.  There is still plenty of time to schedule this exclusive package.  Long Island has seen its first wintery blast and could be hit with colder temps and possible snow soon, and Suburban knows the steps to prevent pest infestations: 

• Fill holes around pipes, vents and windows
• Check window and vent screens and garage door weather stripping
• Install chimney caps

Spring Clean Up
If you already are prepared for the cold, are you ready for spring?  It is never too early to schedule a spring clean up.  Similar to the winterization package, the spring clean up prevents pests entering your home. Give yourself something to look forward to during the bleak winter months!  


Call Suburban Exterminating at (516) or (631) 864-6900 to schedule your home protection today.  To see what other services Suburban offers, visit our website.  This New Year we all pledge to a healthy start.  Pest control services should be remembered in that resolution!

Award for Excellent Customer Service

Suburban Exterminating receives another amazing honor: The Super Service Award from Angie’s List!  Angie’s List is a website that provides user reviews and discounts for goods and services on Long Island and nationwide.  The Super Service Award is given to those businesses that maintain a superior service rating.  Only 5% of the businesses on Angie’s List qualify for this distinction.  Suburban is very proud to receive such an honor!

Congratulations to our hardworking staff, technicians and managers!  And a very grateful “Thank You” to our loyal customers for your continued support!  Here’s to another amazing year in 2012!

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!