Flies, albeit very common in Australia, poise public health issues with the diseases that are usually carried with them. With the lower immunity of elderly and children, protecting them against flies in the upcoming warmer months in Australia is crucial for their health (hay fever as well). So, here’s 4 tips to safeguard your family against flies.
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Fly screens
Physically blocking flies from your home is one of the most effective and time-efficient solutions. Adult flies have a life span of 4-6 weeks with great reproduction ability. If your neighbourhood is currently affected or is known to be affected with a fly situation, pest control solutions are not likely to be effective from the start.
Installing fly screens is the option to go for that can protect your house as soon as it was installed, while also keeping the natural air flow without the need of closing windows and doors in fear of the flies.
For extra convenience, we suggest looking for retractable fly screens in Melbourne that allow the hiding of fly screens in less fly-prominent winters.
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Waste processing
Waste is a major food source for flies. Improperly disposed wastes, including insecurely sealed trash bags and dirty trash cans, not only provides food source for flies but also encourage flies to breed around it. Limiting life essentials for flies is crucial to reduce reproduction of flies in the neighbourhood.
All trash bags should be tightly sealed before disposal to prevent flies entering and obtaining food. If the bags are broken or leaking, place the bag into another bag and seal properly.
Regular cleaning of the trash can also keep flies away with eliminating their food source and the odour that is associated in attracting flies.
Housekeeping is also beneficial in disposing food leftovers or storing exposed food. Pet excretions should be cleaned as well, whether if it’s dog litter on the street or cat litter in a litter box. The odour of excretion is highly regarded as an attractive factor to flies.
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Trapping devices
In order to control the number of flies in the neighbourhood, trapping devices are recommended. Adhesive papers and scented baits are often considered effective in limiting the number of flies in the area and reducing the chance of reproduction.
The placement of trapping devices should not be within easy reach of children or pets to prevent the associated negative consequences. Trapping devices also require regular check-ups to maintain its efficiency.
Though being described as inhumane, bug zappers can be used under safe conditions. These electrified appliances use lights, rather than scents, to attract flies. Light options are more effective in places with other odours, like restaurants or trash processing facilities.
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Chemical methods
Pyrethriod- and Imidacloprid-based insecticides are common chemical sprays in limiting the number of flies by killing larvae, repelling or killing adult flies.
Chemical options are required to be used in safer conditions, including not spraying in strong winds and preventing close contact with infants and animals. It is essential to take extra caution not to use chemical options around food handling area as well.
