As the Weather Warms, Ants Venture Indoors Seeking Food

The National Pest Management Association Offers Tips to Prevent an Ant
Infestation
FAIRFAX, Va.--(Business Wire)--
With more than 700 species in the United States, it`s not surprising that ants
are a very common home-invader. As many homeowners will attest, ants often move
indoors in warmer weather in search of food. The National Pest Management
Association (NPMA) warns homeowners to take proactive steps to eliminate ants at
first appearance to reduce the likelihood of a major infestation later.

One of the most destructive species is the carpenter ant, which tunnels through
wood to build its nest. The insects, which are found nationwide, enter buildings
through small cracks and holes, and tunnel through decaying wood before
attacking undamaged wood. As such, a carpenter ant infestation can cause severe
property damage.

Fire ants are a species found in the Southern U.S., usually in landscaped areas,
garages and near structural foundations. When their mound-like nests are
disturbed, fire ants attack with a painful sting that can be especially
dangerous to individuals who experience an allergic reaction.

The most common home invading species include odorous and non-odorous house ants
and pavement ants. These ants will eat almost anything, including fruit, meats
and cheese and can contaminate food sources that they infest.

"Most people don`t realize that ant infestations can pose serious risks," says
Greg Baumann, senior scientist for NPMA. "From costly property damage to food
contamination, ants jeopardize a person`s health and safety. Homeowners must pay
close attention to signs of a potential infestation and take action if ants are
found."

NPMA recommends that homeowners follow these tips to avoid ant infestations:

* Eliminate sources of moisture or standing water near a home
* Keep food in sealed containers and dispose of garbage regularly
* Keep pet food and water dishes clean and remove any spilled food
* Keep tree branches cut back from the house
* Seal cracks and holes around a home
* Do not store firewood and building materials next to your home

For more information on ants, or to find a local pest professional, visit:
www.pestworld.org.

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 6,000 members, was
established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the
protection of public health, food and property.

Vault Communications
Patricia Stofanak, 610-455-2745
pstofanak@vaultcommunications.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009