National Pest Management Month takes place every April and recognizes the role of pest management professionals. They protect the public from threats posed by pests of all kinds. Spearheaded by the National Pest Management Association 40 years ago, the month serves as a tribute to pest control workers. They are instrumental in keeping homes, businesses, and public areas safe from pest infestation so that we can continue living healthy, comfortable lives. There are enough horror movies about bugs taking over the planet for us to know that this is not something good. Pest control workers are modern-day heroes.
History of National Pest Management Month
National Pest Management Month is an annual celebration, created by the National Pest Management Association (N.P.M.A.). It pays tribute to the tireless workers in the pest control industry for their role in keeping both private and public spaces free of pests. These can cause various health threats and property damage. It is observed every April, during the peak of springtime, when pests begin to emerge from their winter hideouts. Warmer seasons such as spring and summer bring increased pest activity. Many of these pests tend to make their way inside and infest indoor spaces without us noticing. These pests include termites, rodents, roaches, bedbugs, and various types of invasive insects that can cause problems to your property or your health.Pest control professionals such as exterminators and public sanitation officers work year-round. They place themselves in risky environments and deal with hazardous creatures. Many also handle chemicals that can pose health risks with every usage. All to keep our living environments clean, stable, and free of disease.Running since 1975, the month-long campaign appreciates the efforts of pest control professionals. It also raises awareness about the importance of keeping commercial, residential, agricultural, and industrial spaces pest-free. This ensures health and clean properties. It also keeps food supplies free of disease from pest contamination. Aside from National Pest Management Month, the N.P.M.A. also created Termite Awareness Week in June and Rodent Awareness Week in October. These encourage the public to learn more about the health and property-related threats posed by specific pests.
National Pest Management Month timeline
The National Association of Exterminators and Fumigators, known as the National Pest Management Association from 1999 onwards, is founded.
American scientists introduce the globally adopted concept of integrated pest management, which are safe national pest control efforts.
The United States Congress amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to require the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to regulate pesticide risks for safer use in extermination practices.
Then-U.S. President Gerald Ford declares April 1975 the first "Pest Control Month”.
National Pest Management Month FAQs
Why do we need a National Pest Management Month?
Pest problems tend to be overlooked and are usually noticed only when a problem becomes very obvious. One of the goals of National Pest Management Month is to remind homeowners and business owners to frequently check their surroundings. Tell-tale signs of pest infestation warn them to apply preventive measures to ensure the safety of their surroundings.
What is the difference between National Pest Management Month and World Pest Day?
Essentially, both days have the same vision, the only difference being World Pest Day takes place on June 6. The abundance of pest-awareness commemorations, such as Termite Awareness Week or Rodent Awareness Week, highlights the gravity and the importance of dealing with pest-related concerns.
How often should I call pest control to my home?
It is recommended that you consult pest control professionals every month or every two months. If your home or business show tell-tale signs of infestation, it is advised to call them every week to confirm whether fumigation is required.
How to Observe National Pest Management Month
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Pest-proof your home
Prevent the threat of pest infestation by taking preventive measures. These include sealing foundation cracks and regularly sanitizing surfaces used to prepare food. You could also plug leaks to eliminate stagnant water puddles, and properly dispose of garbage in sealed receptacles to prevent pest attraction.
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Contact your local exterminator
If you are suffering from persistent pest problems, contact your local exterminator to help you identify and deal with the problem in your home or business. The sooner you act, the better.
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Leave a kind word
As a way to show your gratitude to your local pest control business, leave reviews that show your appreciation for their work on their online pages. Doing so will help their services become noticed by others.
5 Skin Crawling Facts About Pests
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They cause an array of diseases
Pests can be responsible for transmitting vector-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, malaria, plague, diarrhea, and salmonella.
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Termites do substantial damage
Termites cause up to $5 billion in property damages every year in the United States.
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Rodents are effective virus carriers
Rodents can carry and spread over 200 types of human pathogens.
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Keeping cockroaches away is simple
Various household items and foodstuffs are known to be successful cockroach repellents, such as baking soda, fabric softener, coffee grounds, and garlic powder.
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The mosquito has a deadly track record
Mosquitos are the deadliest animal known to mankind, responsible for up to one million deaths around the world every year.
Why National Pest Management Month is Important
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Pest control workers are important
Pest control workers risk themselves every day to come into contact with some of the most hazardous pests and environments. It is only fair that they receive a month-long appreciation of their work so that it does not feel like a thankless job.
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It makes us more aware of our living conditions
One goal of National Pest Management Month is to make us more aware of the state of our surrounding environment. By identifying conditions in our homes, and taking action to alleviate pests, we are making sure that we inhabit healthier, safer spaces.
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More knowledge about pests
Studying biology might not be for everyone, but National Pest Management Month helps expand our knowledge about the critters that may affect our homes. It would be beneficial if we have some knowledge about the pests themselves so that we know how to get rid of them.
National Pest Management Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2024 | April 1 | Monday |
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
