Flies out of control? Do this.

The sticky, hot days of summer are prime fly time. All may be quiet, and you hear a heavy buzzing and think it’s a bee, but it’s much more likely to be a fly. It may even seem that it’s near impossible that a fly has made its way in but just can’t seem to find its way out. One or two can be a nuisance, but if you’re finding repeat offenders, you should take some important steps right now to remove them.

Why you should take steps if flies are out of control

For the most part, flies do not pose the same direct threat as other pests. Mosquitoes can transmit blood-borne illness. Ticks carry Lyme disease. Wasps can sting and cause allergic reactions. Just because flies don’t have the same direct threat factor, they can still do some unsavory things.

Firstly, flies will transfer bacteria from one surface to another—this typically ends up being food and can be ingested by humans. The most common outcomes of fly bacteria transfers are stomach bugs, blood poisoning, and pneumonia. In recent years, researchers have determined that flies can carry as many as 600 different types of bacteria. Gross.

Fly prevention

There are a few steps you can take right now to prevent flies of all kinds from swarming your home.

• Dispose of any rotting fruit or vegetables on the counter.
• Bag your old food in air-tight trash bags when putting in the receptacle or put in a compost bin away from your home
• Keep fruits and vegetables inside your fridge
• Take out your trash and recycling frequently.
• Replace old sponges, mops, or rags. Flies need moisture to reproduce.
• Ensure your sponges and mops are able to fully dry.
• Wash dishes immediately. Dirty dishes can attract fruit flies who rely heavily on moist food sources.
• If you do opt to keep your fruit and vegetables on your counter or pantry, be sure to check on them regularly.
• Give your kitchen a thorough cleaning, and regularly wipe your counters and floors.
• Immediately clean up any spills and crumbs.
• Make sure your foundation, doors, and windows are free of holes, cracks or openings.
• Repair or replace broken window screens, caulk or seal openings around utility pipes, and install door sweeps underneath exterior doors.

Download Our Flies 101 Guide

Fly in your ointment? Our team at Graduate Pest Solutions specializes in prevention. Call us at 413-566-8222 or contact us with any questions or if you are experiencing a pest problem. We have the knowledge and service necessary to help keep your home and workplace pest-free!