General Household and Rodent Pest Control 2024

 

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This year's topics include:

Overview of Household Pest Control in Florida

Pest control is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment for homeowners in Florida. With its warm and humid climate, Florida is prone to various household pests that can infest homes, pose health risks, and cause property damage. Licensed pest control operators and technicians play a crucial role in effectively managing and controlling these pests to ensure the well-being of residents.

Importance of Pest Control Training for Licensed Operators and Technicians
Effective pest control requires a solid foundation of knowledge and skills. Licensed pest control operators and technicians undergo specialized training to understand the biology, habits, and control measures of common household pests. This training equips them with the expertise to accurately identify pests, develop appropriate control strategies, and safely apply pest control products.

Objectives of this program
The primary objective of this program is to provide licensed pest control operators and technicians, in Florida, with comprehensive knowledge and practical guidance on household pest control, specifically focusing on cockroaches, and other common pests. By understanding the biology, habits, and control measures for these pests, operators and technicians will be better equipped to address infestations effectively and provide valuable services to their clients.

Understanding the Biology and Behavior of Pests
To effectively control household pests, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of their biology and behavior. This program will delve into the life cycles, reproductive habits, nesting preferences, feeding patterns, and other behavioral aspects of cockroaches, ants, and other common pests. By gaining insight into their biology, technicians can develop targeted control strategies tailored to each pest species.

Resources for Visual Representations of Household Pests in Florida
Visual representations play a vital role in understanding and identifying household pests. Throughout this program, links to relevant resources will be provided to help operators and technicians access visual representations of cockroaches, and other pests mentioned. These visual resources may include photographs, and illustrations, enabling operators and technicians to enhance their knowledge of pest appearance, distinguishing features, and habitats.

In the following sections, we will explore in detail the biology, habits, and control measures for cockroaches, and other common household pests in Florida, empowering licensed pest control operators and technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively address pest infestations and provide excellent service to their clients.

Cockroaches in Florida: Biology, Habits, and Control Measures

Introduction to Cockroaches: General Overview
Cockroaches are among the most common household pests in Florida. They are known for their adaptability, resilience, and ability to reproduce rapidly, making them a persistent nuisance. Understanding the biology and habits of cockroaches is crucial for effective control.

Common Cockroach Species in Florida
Florida is home to several cockroach species that frequently infest residential and commercial spaces. The most common species encountered include the German cockroach (Blattella germanica), American cockroach (Periplaneta americana), Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis), and brown-banded cockroach (Supella longipalpa). Each species has distinct characteristics and preferences for habitats and food sources.

German cockroach (Blattella germanica)
The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is a common species of cockroach found worldwide, including in Florida. It is important for pest control operators and technicians to be able to identify this species accurately to effectively implement control measures. Here are the key identification characteristics of the German cockroach.


Size: Adult German cockroaches typically measure around 13 to 16 millimeters in length. They are relatively small compared to other cockroach species.
Color: The German cockroach is light brown to tan in color. It has two dark parallel stripes running lengthwise on its pronotum (the area behind the head).
Body Shape: The German cockroach has an elongated and oval-shaped body with a flattened appearance. The body segments are clearly defined.
Wings: Adult German cockroaches have fully developed wings but are unable to fly. The wings are long and extend beyond the length of the abdomen.
Antennae: They have long and slender antennae, which are typically longer than their bodies. The antennae have several segments and are used for sensory perception.
Habit and Behavior: German cockroaches are primarily nocturnal, preferring to hide during the day and becoming active at night. They are agile and fast runners, capable of quickly scurrying away when disturbed. They are also known for their ability to reproduce rapidly, leading to large infestations if left unchecked.
Preferred Habitats: German cockroaches prefer warm and humid environments. They are commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas with access to food, water, and shelter. They tend to hide in cracks, crevices, and dark, secluded areas.
Fecal Droppings: German cockroaches leave behind small, dark, and pepper-like fecal droppings. These droppings can be found near their harborages or along their travel paths.
Odor: Infestations of German cockroaches can emit a musty or oily odor. This odor may become more noticeable in severe infestations.

American cockroach (Periplaneta americana)
The American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) is a large and common cockroach species found in various parts of the world, including Florida. Identification of the American cockroach is crucial for effective pest control. Here are the key identification characteristics of the American cockroach.


Size: Adult American cockroaches are relatively large compared to other common cockroach species, measuring about 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) in length.
Color: The American cockroach is reddish-brown in color, with a yellowish band pattern around the pronotum (the area behind the head). The edges of the thorax and wings may have a pale or light yellow coloration.
Body Shape: The American cockroach has an oval-shaped body with a flattened appearance. It has a shield-like pronotum and long, segmented antennae.
Wings: Adult American cockroaches have fully developed wings that cover the abdomen. The wings are longer than the body and extend beyond the tip of the abdomen. However, they are not strong fliers and typically use their wings for gliding short distances.
Antennae: They have long and filamentous antennae that are about the same length as their bodies or slightly longer. The antennae have several segments and are used for sensory perception.
Habit and Behavior: American cockroaches are primarily nocturnal insects, preferring to hide during the day and becoming active at night. They are fast runners and are capable of running quickly when disturbed. They are also known for their ability to fly short distances when necessary.
Preferred Habitats: American cockroaches are commonly found in dark, warm, and damp areas such as basements, sewers, and utility tunnels. They can also infest kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas with access to food, water, and shelter. They tend to hide in cracks, crevices, and voids.
Fecal Droppings: American cockroaches produce large cylindrical-shaped droppings that resemble small pellets. These droppings may be found near their harborage areas, along their travel paths, or in areas of infestation.
Odor: Infestations of American cockroaches can emit a strong, musty odor that may become more noticeable in large numbers.

Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis)
The Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis) is a common species of cockroach found in various parts of the world, including Florida. Accurate identification of the Oriental cockroach is essential for effective pest control. Here are the key identification characteristics of the Oriental cockroach.


Size: Adult Oriental cockroaches are relatively large compared to other common cockroach species, measuring about 1 to 1.25 inches (2.5 to 3.2 cm) in length.
Color: The Oriental cockroach is shiny black or dark brown in color. The adult males have wings that cover about three-quarters of their abdomen, while the females have underdeveloped wings and are wingless.
Body Shape: The Oriental cockroach has a robust and oval-shaped body. Both males and females have a shiny, smooth, and flattened appearance.
Wings: Adult Oriental cockroaches have wings, but the females have shorter wings that do not fully cover the abdomen. They are incapable of flying and rely on crawling to move.
Antennae: They have long, thin, and segmented antennae. The antennae are longer than the body and are used for sensory perception.
Habit and Behavior: Oriental cockroaches are primarily nocturnal insects, preferring to hide during the day and becoming active at night. They are relatively slow runners compared to other cockroach species and tend to move in a more sluggish manner. They are not capable of flying.
Preferred Habitats: Oriental cockroaches prefer cool and damp environments. They are commonly found in dark and moist areas such as basements, crawl spaces, sewers, and outdoor locations with high humidity. They can also infest bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where water sources are present. They tend to hide in cracks, crevices, and areas with limited light.
Fecal Droppings: Brown-banded cockroaches leave behind small, dark, and pepper-like fecal droppings. These droppings can be found near their harborages or along their travel paths.
Odor: Infestations of Oriental cockroaches can emit a strong, musty odor that may become more noticeable in large numbers.

Brown-banded Cockroach Supella longipalpa (Fabricius)
The brown-banded cockroach, Supella longipalpa (Fabricius), is a small domestic (cockroaches that live their entire life indoors) cockroach species. This species derives its name from two prominent bands present on nymphs and adults.

The brown-banded cockroach resembles the German cockroach (Blattella germanica) with its small size and body shape, but it can be distinguished by the absence of two dark pronotal stripes. 

Size: The adult Brown-banded cockroach males are (13-14.5 mm) and are longer than the adult females (10-12 mm), but females are more robust
Color: The Brown-banded cockroach is a light red brown to tan in color. Two dark bands consisting of horizontal stripes can be found on the closed wings. 
Body Shape: The Oriental cockroach has a robust and oval-shaped body. Both males and females have a shiny, smooth, and flattened appearance.
Wings: Brown-banded cockroach males fly when disturbed and their wings cover the full length of the abdomen. Females cannot fly and have wings that are shorter than the abdomen.
Antennae: They have long, thin, and segmented antennae. The antennae are longer than the body and are used for sensory perception.
Habit and Behavior: Brown-banded cockroaches are primarily nocturnal, preferring to hide during the day and becoming active at night. They are agile and fast runners, capable of quickly scurrying away when disturbed.
Preferred Habitats: The brown-banded cockroach prefers warm environments, places such as small crevices, electronic equipment, and storage cabinets. The brown-banded cockroach is sometimes referred as the “furniture cockroach” because it tends to be found throughout the residence, including non-food-containing environments such as the bedroom, under tables, and behind pictures on the walls
Fecal Droppings: Brown-banded cockroaches leave behind small, dark, and pepper-like fecal droppings. These droppings can be found near their harborages or along their travel paths.
Odor: Infestations of Brown-banded cockroaches can emit a musty or oily odor. This odor may become more noticeable in severe infestations.

By familiarizing themselves with the specific identification characteristics of cockroaches, pest control operators and technicians can accurately identify the species and implement appropriate control measures. Understanding their biology, habits, and preferred habitats enables operators and technicians to develop targeted strategies for effective elimination and prevention of infestations.

Cockroach Common Biology and Life Cycle
Cockroaches have a gradual metamorphosis life cycle consisting of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The female cockroach lays eggs in protective cases called oothecae, which contain multiple eggs. Nymphs hatch from the eggs and undergo several molts before reaching adulthood. Cockroaches are resilient insects with a relatively long lifespan, and their ability to reproduce quickly contributes to their infestation potential.

Cockroach Common Habitats and Behavior
Cockroaches prefer warm, humid environments with access to food, water, and shelter. They can be found in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other areas where food particles, moisture, and hiding places are abundant. Cockroaches are nocturnal insects, seeking dark and secluded spaces during the day and emerging at night to scavenge for food.

Health Risks Associated with Cockroaches
Cockroach infestations pose various health risks to humans. They can contaminate food and surfaces with their feces, saliva, and shed skins, potentially causing allergies, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues. Cockroaches are also known carriers of pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and various other bacteria and viruses.

Cockroach Control Measures: Prevention and Elimination Strategies
Identifying cockroach infestations is important for effective control. Common signs include sightings of live cockroaches, shed exoskeletons, dark fecal droppings, and a musty odor. Cockroaches prefer dark, secluded areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Effective cockroach control involves both preventive measures and targeted elimination strategies. Prevention includes practicing good sanitation, sealing entry points, and removing food and water sources. Elimination strategies may include using baits, insect growth regulators (IGRs), residual insecticides, and other control methods. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques, such as regular inspections, monitoring, and targeted treatments, can help achieve long-term control.

Successful cockroach control requires an integrated approach that combines sanitation, exclusion, and targeted treatments. Key control measures include.

Sanitation: Good sanitation practices are essential for cockroach control. Eliminate food and water sources by promptly cleaning up spills, sealing food containers, and fixing plumbing leaks. Regularly remove trash and keep garbage areas clean.
Exclusion: Seal cracks, crevices, and entry points to prevent cockroach entry. Focus on areas near pipes, electrical outlets, and baseboards. Install door sweeps and repair damaged window screens to minimize access points.
Pesticide Applications: Targeted pesticide treatments are often necessary for severe infestations. Use insecticide baits, dusts, or residual sprays in cockroach harborages. Follow label instructions, considering safety precautions and application rates.
Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular monitoring is crucial to assess treatment effectiveness and identify any remaining cockroach activity. Conduct follow-up treatments as needed and make adjustments to control strategies based on monitoring results.

Recommended Products and Techniques for Cockroach Control
Licensed pest control operators and technicians in Florida have access to various products and techniques for cockroach control. They should be knowledgeable about insecticide formulations, such as baits, sprays, and dusts, and their appropriate application methods. It is essential to consider safety precautions, follow label instructions, and select products registered for use in residential settings.

In the next section, we will explore ants in Florida, their biology, habits, and effective control measures. Understanding these aspects will enable licensed pest control operators and technicians to address ant infestations with precision and efficiency.

Occasional Invaders

EARWIGS
Earwigs are in the Order Dermaptera and are beetlelike, short-winged, fast-moving insects. They are usually dark brown and have a pair of pincerlike appendages at the tip of the abdomen. They have chewing mouthparts and a gradual type of development.

Earwigs are active at night. They usually hide in cracks, crevices, under bark, or in similar places during the day. They are usually scavengers in their feeding habits, but occasionally feed on plants. Favorite foods include armyworms, aphids, mites and scales. They also forage on food scraps or dead insects.

Control of one or two that find their way inside is best handled with a broom and dustpan or vacuum. If they are found in large numbers around the house, like in mulch beds, proper scheduling of outdoor applications may increase the efficiency of control. Application of residual insecticides should be made late in the afternoon or early evening because earwigs are active at night.

SOWBUGS AND PILLBUGS
Sowbugs and pillbugs are common Crustacea, belonging to a group of animals called Isopods. Both animals are slow-moving, crawling arthropods.They require high moisture and are most active at night. They are wingless, oval or slightly elongated and slate-gray with the body segments appearing as armored plates.

Sowbugs are often called woodlice and possess two tail-like appendages, seven pairs of legs, and well-developed eyes. They are incapable of rolling into a tight ball. Pillbugs, or “roly-polies,” lack the tail like appendages and can roll into a tight ball.

Both pillbugs and sowbugs feed primarily on decaying organic matter, such as mulch, grass clippings and leaf litter, although they will occasionally damage the roots of green plants. Their normal habitat is outside but they occasionally wander indoors, where they do no damage. When resting during the day, they may be found under trash, rocks, boards and decaying vegetation, or just beneath the soil surface. A heavy infestation indoors usually indicates a large population outdoors.

Sowbugs and pillbugs cause no damage inside the home. Simple mechanical control such as a broom and dustpan or a fly swatter may be adequate. If they become a serious nuisance, elimination of hiding places, food and moisture sources will reduce the infestation.

SILVERFISH AND FIREBRATS
Silverfish and firebrats make up the insect order Zygentoma (formally known as Thysanura), which includes some of the most primitive insects. These insects are long-lived, taking up to two years to reach maturity and then continuing to live for several years as adults. Silverfish are tapered in the back, giving rise to their fishlike appearance and most are silver. Firebrats are gray with darker markings. Both silverfish and firebrats have long antennae and three long bristles, known as cerci, arising from the tip of the abdomen — because of this they are sometimes called bristletails.

Silverfish and firebrats gain entry inside through openings in foundations or around pipes or wires passing through walls. They can also be carried into buildings in boxes, books, papers or other items brought from infested areas.These insects are attracted to buildings and survive if areas have a warm, moist environment and suitable food. They live in most indoor locations including attics, basements and wall voids. Firebrats require warmer areas than silverfish and can tolerate drier conditions. Both silverfish and firebrats are nocturnal and are not attracted to light; thus, they are rarely seen in well lighted locations.

CENTIPEDES AND MILLIPEDES
Centipedes and millipedes are commonly seen in yards and occasionally enter homes. Neither centipedes nor millipedes damage furnishings, home or food. Their only importance is that they annoy or frighten individuals.

Centipedes are many-legged animals and belong to a group of animals called Chilopoda. They are usually brownish, flattened animals with many body segments. Most of the body segments have one pair of legs. Centipedes are fast runners and may vary in length from 1 to 6 inches. They have one pair of antennae that are easily seen. Centipedes have poorly developed eyes and are most active at night. They are active predators and feed mainly on insects and spiders. All centipedes have venom glands to immobilize their prey. The jaws of the smaller local species cannot penetrate human skin. However, the larger species may inflict painful bites.

Centipedes are usually associated with damp, dark places such as under stones, leaf litter, logs, bark or soil crevices. Indoors they may be found in closets and bathrooms where there is high humidity.

Millipedes are commonly known as “thousand leggers” and belong to a group of arthropods called Diplopods. Millipedes are wormlike, cylindrical animals with many body segments. Most of their body segments bear two pairs of legs. Millipedes tend to coil up tightly when disturbed, and some species can secrete a foul-smelling fluid.

Millipedes feed on decaying vegetable matter and are often found under stones, flower pots, boards or similar debris where there is abundant moisture. Occasionally after rains or during cold weather, large numbers of millipedes may migrate into buildings.

Removal of individuals with a broom or dustpan is sometimes sufficient. A large indoor population usually indicates large numbers of millipedes or centipedes surrounding the structure. Removal of breeding sites and harborages will aid in control. Compost piles and decaying vegetation should be removed from areas close to the home.

CRICKETS
Crickets (usually field crickets) are sometimes nuisances in buildings, and they may also damage fabrics or other materials. They are especially destructive to silks and woolens. They are attracted to perspiration and other stains on clothing and fabrics. Occasionally crickets invade a structure in large numbers. They are often attracted to lights around a building at night. Besides damage, they produce chirping that may become annoying to building inhabitants. Crickets belong to the insect order Orthoptera and are related to grasshoppers. These insects do not undergo a complete metamorphosis.

The most common crickets to invade buildings are the house cricket, Acheta domesticus, and the field cricket, Gryllus spp., which are very similar in appearance. The key to managing crickets inside is exclusion. Seal cracks and other openings from the outside that provide access. Caulk or otherwise seal cracks and crevices inside the building that provide hiding places. Behind or under heavy furniture and appliances or in other inaccessible areas, try removing crickets using a strong vacuum cleaner.

PLASTER BAGWORMS
Plaster bagworms are in the Family Tineidae and are similar in appearance to clothes moths. Bagworm larvae live in a flattened, gray, watermelon seed-shaped case about ½-inch long. The case is made of silken fiber and sand particles, lint, paint fragments, and other debris. The case has a slit-like opening at each end so the larva is able to move around and feed from either end.

Plaster bagworms are easily seen on light-colored walls. Close examination of the house may reveal bagworms attached to the underside of chairs, bookcases and other furniture. They are often found along rug edges, near baseboards or on the lower edges of walls. Bagworms are quite common in garages and underneath buildings.

The larvae mainly feed on spider webs and dead insects; however, they also eat fabrics made of wool and other natural fibers. Control of plaster bagworms is similar to that of clothes moths. Good housekeeping is important, especially the removal of spider webs. Sweep down and remove any spider webs and visible bagworm cases.

Weather-Related Factors and Pest Control
Florida's climate plays a significant role in pest activity and control. The state's warm and humid conditions create an ideal environment for pests to thrive. Pest control operators and technicians must take weather-related factors into account when developing treatment strategies. For example, heavy rainfall can lead to increased mosquito populations, while warm temperatures can accelerate breeding cycles for various pests. Operators and technicians should adjust their control measures accordingly and consider seasonal variations in pest activity.

Unique Challenges Posed by Pests in Florida
Florida is known for its unique pest challenges due to its subtropical and tropical climate. In addition to the pests already discussed, operators and technicians may encounter specific challenges related to pests such as cockroaches, ants and occassional invaders. Each pest presents its own set of biology, habits, and control considerations. Pest control operators and technicians must be familiar with these challenges and have the knowledge and tools to effectively address them.

Safety Precautions for Pest Control Operators and Technicians in Florida

Importance of Safety in Pest Control
Ensuring safety in pest control operations is of utmost importance for both the company employees and the clients. Pest control operators and technicians in Florida should prioritize the well-being of themselves, their colleagues, and the general public while conducting pest management activities. By adhering to safety precautions and regulations, operators and technicians can minimize the risks associated with handling pesticides and working in potentially hazardous environments.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Pest Control Operators and Technicians
Wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for safeguarding against potential pesticide exposure and other occupational hazards. Pest control operators and technicians making pesticide applications should use PPE such as gloves, coveralls, respirators, goggles, and boots, depending on the nature of the task and the chemicals involved. Properly fitted and maintained PPE helps protect the skin, eyes, respiratory system, and overall health of the applicator.

Safe Handling and Storage of Pesticides
Proper handling and storage of pesticides are vital to prevent accidents, spills, and contamination. Pest control operators and technicians should carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for the safe use, mixing, and application of pesticides. This includes taking measures to avoid direct skin contact, preventing inhalation of pesticide vapors, and minimizing the release of chemicals into the environment. Additionally, pesticides should be stored in secure, well-ventilated areas away from food, water sources, and children's reach.

Proper Disposal of Pesticide Containers and Waste
Pest control operator and technicians must adhere to proper procedures for the disposal of pesticide containers and waste materials. Empty pesticide containers should be rinsed thoroughly according to label instructions before recycling or disposal. Operators and technicians should also follow local regulations and guidelines for the safe disposal of pesticide containers and any unused or expired pesticides. Improper disposal can lead to environmental contamination and pose risks to human and animal health.

Regulations and Licensing Requirements for Pest Control
Operators and Technicians in Florida

Pest control operators and technicians in Florida are subject to specific regulations and licensing requirements to ensure the safe and effective provision of pest management services. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regulates the pest control industry and issues licenses for pest control operators and technicians. Operators and technicians must obtain the appropriate licenses and certifications, which may include passing exams and completing continuing education to stay updated on industry best practices and safety protocols.

References:

General Household Pest Control, SM-47; Koehler, Pereira, Kern, Baldwin; University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, September 2019

All photos credits University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences; various publications

Ebeling, W. (1975). Urban Entomology. University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources.

University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Cockroaches. Entomology and Nematology Department.

National Pest Management Association. (n.d.). PestWorld. https://www.pestworld.org/

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (n.d.). Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Principles. https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/integrated-pest-management-ipm-principles

Florida Health. (n.d.). Mosquito-Borne Diseases. Florida Department of Health.

University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. (n.d.). Bed Bugs. Entomology.

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Question 1 - Is "To provide comprehensive knowledge and practical guidance and learn the visual representations of common pests" the primary objective of this program for licensed pest control operators and technicians in Florida?

    1. True
Answer 1
  2. False
     

Question 2 - It is important for licensed pest control operators and technicians to understand the biology and behavior of pests in order to develop targeted control strategies for each pest species.

    1. True
Answer 2
  2. False
     

Question 3 - Photographs, illustrations, and videos are resources that will be provided throughout this program to help operators and technicians access visual representations of pests.

    1. True
Answer 3
  2. False
     

Question 4 - Which cockroach species is known for its ability to reproduce rapidly, leading to large infestations if left unchecked?

    1. German cockroach
Answer 4
  2. American cockroach
     

Question 5 - What is the primary identification characteristic of the Brown-banded cockroach?

    1. Two darkened horizontal areas on base of wings
Answer 5
  2. Large jumping legs
     

Question 6 - What is the primary identification characteristic of the American cockroach?

    1. Two light stripes on the edge of wings
Answer 6
  2. Underdeveloped wings in females
     

Question 7 - Which cockroach species is known for its preference for cool and damp environments?

    1. Oriental cockroach
Answer 7
  2. German cockroach
     

Question 8 - What are the potential health risks associated with cockroach infestations?

    1. Contamination, allergies and pathogens
Answer 8
  2. Cockroaches are perfectly safe
     

Question 9 - Which stage of the roach life cycle follows the nymphal stage?

    1. Adult
Answer 9
  2. Egg
     

Question 10 - Earwigs are usually dark brown and have a pair of pincerlike appendages at the tip of the abdomen. They have chewing mouthparts and a gradual type of development.

    1. True
Answer 10
  2. False
     

Question 11 - Sowbugs and pillbugs require high moisture and are most active at night. They are wingless, oval or slightly elongated and slate-gray with the body segments appearing as armored plates.

    1. True
Answer 11
  2. False
     

Question 12 - Neither centipedes nor millipedes damage furnishings, home or food.

    1. True
Answer 12
  2. False
     

Question 13 - Field crickets can damage fabrics or other materials. They are especially destructive to silks and woolens.

    1. True
Answer 13
  2. False
     

Question 14 - What is the primary goal of integrated pest management (IPM)?

    1. Minimize harm to non-target and environment
Answer 14
  2. Eliminating pests using targeted pesticide treatments
     

Question 15 - What should licensed pest control operators and technicians in Florida consider to avoid harm to protected species?

    1. Taking precautions to avoid impacts on endangered species
Answer 15
  2. Complying with label directions and treating anyway
     

Question 16 - Why is continuing education and professional development important for pest control operators and technicians?

    1. Stay updated on research, regulations and advancements
Answer 16
  2. Enhance your communication skills with consumers
     

Question 17 - Why is it important for pest control technicians in Florida to adjust their control measures based on weather-related factors?

    1. Weather can impact treatments
Answer 17
  2. Weather has no significant effect
     

Question 18 - What is an example of a unique pest challenge faced by pest control operators and technicians in Florida?

    1. Roaches
Answer 18
  2. Ladybugs
     

Question 19 - Why is wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) important for pest control operators and technicians in Florida?

    1. Safeguard against exposure
Answer 19
  2. PPE is unneccessary
     

Question 20 - What is the purpose of properly disposing of pesticide containers and waste materials?

    1. Prevent contamination and health risks
Answer 20
  2. Proper disposal has no impact on pest control
     

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