The Ultimate Fly Prevention Guide For Western Massachusetts Properties

House flies are far too common. They show up at cookouts and other outdoor gatherings within minutes of food being uncovered. If only one or two flies show up, we just put up with them—though we shouldn't. House flies aren't just annoying pests. Studies have shown that the common house fly is able to spread as many as 65 diseases. Yes, you read that correctly. The reason flies can spread so many diseases is that they are dirty insects. Fly eggs are laid in rotting organic matter and maggots grow in that rot and decay. By the time a fly is ready to take to the air, it has already had contact with harmful bacteria that can make you sick. If this isn't enough, a fly will regurgitate the contents of its stomach onto food before it consumes it. This is so that its stomach acid can liquify the food matter and make it possible for the fly to suck it up with its straw-like mouthparts. This increases its ability to transmit diseases. It is unwise to put up with flies, especially around, or inside, your Western Massachusetts home. Here is a quick guide to help you reduce flies and keep them out.

Fly Reduction

The first step in fly control is to do a detailed inspection of your exterior. Search for food sources and breeding sites that flies may use.

• Make sure all trash is in covered containers.
• Keep trash containers as clean as possible.
• Have trash removed from your property weekly.
• If you have compost, make sure it is properly mixed.
• If you have fertilizer, make sure it is contained.
• If you have a dog, make sure your dog's droppings are picked up.
• Remove anything in your yard that is fermenting.
• Address moisture issues as these can cause conditions that lead to plant decay.

Fly Exclusion

Once you've eliminated and protected feeding and breeding sites, it is time to consider entry points.

Doors. The most obvious way flies will enter your home is through your doors as you enter. Keep doors open only as long as necessary.

Windows. An open window is an open invitation for flies, especially windows that don't have screens.

Damaged screens. Make sure all your door and window screens are in good working condition.

Weatherstripping. The seal around your exterior doors can have gaps that are large enough for house flies to slip through. If you see light coming in through a gap, it is a good idea to have your weatherstripping replaced, or your doors adjusted.

Fly Control

When flies get into your home, you may be tempted to hang some fly strips and call it a day. This isn't likely to arrest your problem. Fly strips deal with the symptom, not the source. While fly strips may be used as a part of a fly control strategy, they are far from an effective control solution on their own. You need to attack the problem at the source by seeking out breeding sites, both inside and outside of your home. The good news is that it is difficult for house flies to breed in your home. The locations they breed have a very unpleasant odor. If you believe you have an indoor fly infestation, inspect secluded areas that you rarely go to inside your home. Also, check the drains of sinks you rarely use.

Don't Risk It

Life has enough challenges. When you're having trouble with flies, take action. You should never put up with dirty insects getting into your home. They can contaminate surfaces, dishes, silverware, cutting boards, and uncovered foods.

Get Some Help If You Need It

Remember that American Pest Solutions is always available to assist you with your pest control needs. If flies have you scratching your head, wondering where they're breeding, our licensed professionals can solve that puzzle for you. We've seen everything. There is no fly infestation that is too complicated for our team to figure out. Reach out to us with any questions you may have, or schedule to meet with one of our pest professionals. We also offer Green pest control for those who would like to take care of flies the natural way. We're here to help you protect your health and property from harmful pests.