Sure, cockroaches are not fun to look at, and the sound they make when you step on them is spine-chilling, but are they dangerous? Cockroaches are pests that can survive the apocalypse, they have played supporting roles in Hollywood flicks, and they have been around since the dawn of time. What could be so dangerous about that? Are cockroaches dangerous? Yes, but not in ways you may think.
5 Weird Facts about Cockroaches
Cockroaches are little pests that nightmares are made of. These five weird facts about cockroaches explain why:
- There are more than 4,000 species of cockroaches worldwide.
- Cockroaches can live a week without a head, and they can hold their breath for 20 minutes. Good luck flushing them out.
- The largest cockroach is 6 inches long, which means it has a wingspan of nearly a foot. How’s that for a nightmare?
- Cockroaches can run up to 3 miles per hour.
- Cockroaches can survive more than 30 days without food.
Unfortunately, the weird facts about cockroaches are a few reasons why they are dangerous.
Dangers of Cockroaches
Cockroaches can adapt to any environment, and once they get comfortable, they thrive. This makes it difficult to control cockroach populations. Once cockroaches enter your home, they invade your cabinets, spread disease, and cause a distinct odor.
Remember when we said cockroaches can run up to 3 miles per hour? That is great speed for a marathon, but it’s terrible for your health. The faster a cockroach runs, the quicker they can spread disease throughout your home.
Diseases and infections caused by roaches include:
- Cholera
- Dysentery
- Gastroenteritis
- Leprosy
- Salmonellosis
Cockroach droppings and infestations can also cause significant health risks to those with respiratory issues.
Ways to Prevent Cockroaches
Don’t chance a cockroach infestation. Use a few prevention techniques to deter cockroaches in your home or apartment.
- Take your trash out often.
- Keep nonperishable items and other pantry items sealed.
- Vacuum rugs, carpets, and other furnishings often.
- Keep your basement and crawlspace ventilated.
- Seal cracks, holes, and crevices that grant entry into your home.
- Repair leaks in your home.
- Call in the experts.
Professional services are the best way to prevent cockroach infestations and to keep them out of your home or business for good. Big Blue Bug Solutions offers year-round pest control plans to help you keep cockroaches from becoming a problem in your home or business, give us a call today to learn more about our programs.