Hughes Exterminators urges homeowners to watch out for telltale mounds in their yards
With the arrival of spring and warmer temperatures, comes the arrival of red imported fire ants, which can pose serious health risks for homeowners. According to experts from pest control leader Hughes Exterminators, this is especially a concern for the Southeastern region, where temperatures heat up faster and more customers report increases in fire ant activity during this time of the year.
Red imported fire ants will build their telltale nest mounds outdoors in soil and landscape areas or near a structural foundation and can gain entry to a home or building through holes or cracks. Homeowners should pay particular attention to fire ants’ capability to infest garages.
“When fire ants invade, they can greatly impact enjoyment of your outdoor living space,” said Cindy Mannes, Hughes company spokesperson. “By looking for the telltale signs and getting the help of experts with specialized training, you can rid your yard of these pests and safeguard your family to enjoy your property to the fullest.”
Discovering a colony of fire ants is a serious situation that requires immediate expert attention since they are extremely territorial and will attack anyone that comes near their nest. Just one sting is painful and usually results in a raised welt, however, these ants are highly organized and work together, so in most cases, the encounters aren’t limited to just one sting. Those who wander too close to a nest often suffer multiple stings from multiple ants in just a matter of seconds. Fire ants and their telltale mound nests should be actively avoided and homeowners should seal all internal and external cracks and crevices to prevent entry into the structure.
Hughes controls fire ants using an industry-leading process that utilizes Integrated Pest Management – the STEPS™ Total Protection System. STEPS includes full inspection of home and property to pinpoint pest issues; identifies not only the pest, but the true cause of the problem; and treatment in the most environmentally responsible way to alleviate current issues and help prevent any future recurrence.
Hughes offers year-round protection including quarterly inspections and necessary treatments. Consumers interested in protecting their homes from fire ants this spring can contact Hughes Exterminators for a free whole home evaluation at 1-877-464-8443