Keeping Wildlife…in the Wild

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Thu Oct 8, 2009 1:47pm EDT

Arrow Exterminators Urges Homeowners to Protect Their Homes and Beware of "Cute
Squirrels"
ATLANTA--(Business Wire)--
Although squirrels and chipmunks may seem like friendly animals, this is the
time of year when they - and other wildlife - tend to sneak in homes and cause
serious damage. They also pose health risks, like exposure to rabies and the
potentially deadly Hantavirus. Arrow Exterminators, a local termite and pest
control company, specializes in wildlife control and urges homeowners to be
vigilant about keeping out these destructive intruders.

* Squirrels can do significant damage to a home as they widen a hole or make a
new hole to enter. They can chew through electrical wiring which can cause a
fire. They also bring other pests in with them, like fleas, and can carry
diseases such as rabies. 
* Chipmunks` burrowing can cause collapsed walls or slabs and can also damage
flower and vegetable gardens. 
* Rodents, including mice and rats, can contaminate food sources and kitchen
surfaces and equipment. Their droppings can spread numerous diseases. It is
important to inspect for droppings throughout a home, especially in pantries,
under baseboards, in attics and along walls. 
* Raccoons can carry rabies and roundworm and often attempt to nest in the attic
or crawlspace, causing damage to the structure as they make their way in.

"Most fall wildlife can be quite destructive and pose serious health risks,"
said Shay Runion, Arrow`s pest expert. "Homeowners should take precautions to
keep these intruders outside of the home and away from the yard." 

Arrow Exterminators provides these tips to help keep wildlife out of the home:

* Store boxes and containers off the floor and shift items often to prevent
rodents from residing in undisturbed areas. 
* Seal cracks and holes, especially where utilities and pipes enter the home. 
* Store food in thick metal or plastic containers with tight lids. 
* Clean up spilled food right away and wash dishes and cooking utensils soon
after use. 
* Keep outside cooking areas and grills clean. 
* Do not leave pet food or water bowls out overnight. 
* Keep bird feeders away from the house and use squirrel guards to limit access.

* Use a thick plastic or metal garbage can with a tight lid and keep sealed at
all times. 
* Keep grains and animal feed in thick plastic or metal containers with tight
lids.

Arrow protects homes from wildlife and other pests with the STEPS Total
Protection System, an industry-leading process that utilizes Integrated Pest
Management. STEPS includes full inspection of home and property to pinpoint pest
control issues; identification of 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. 

Consumers interested in learning more can find additional information at
www.arrowexterminators.com or contact Arrow for a free whole-home evaluation at
1-888-462-7769. 

AboutArrow Exterminators

Family owned and operated since 1964, Atlanta-based Arrow Exterminators is the
sixth largest pest and termite control company in the United States, ranked by
revenue. Arrow, an Atlanta pest control company, boasts a modern fleet of more
than 700 vehicles, over 70 service centers and revenues exceeding $100 million.
With QualityPro Certification by the National Pest Management Association, the
company offers innovative and environmentally responsible services to protect
homes and businesses of customers in Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia,
Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. Visit
www.arrowexterminators.com for more information.

Arrow Exterminators
Kimberly Beaudin, 770-992-6399 or 404-808-8499
kbeaudin@arrowexterminators.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009

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