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Got Wasps? We’ve Got it Covered! Last week we had a lovely brief heat wave across Herefordshire and, as we start to head into the Summer months, wasps have already started to become a problem. The Queen wasps have been emerging from hibernation, the warm weather activating them to start to populate new colonies. Did you know that a wasp nest can produce around one hundred Queen wasps each season? That gives you an idea of how rapidly wasps can become a problem in your home or business in Herefordshire. Wasps can become very aggressive and, whilst a wasp won’t go out of their way to sting you, they can and do sting with very little provocation. If you get too close to a wasp nest or agitate them, you may expect to be on the end of a wasp sting. Have you been stung by a wasp? A wasp sting can be very painful. Wasp sting symptoms may include swelling around the wasp sting site for around 24 hours or more, itchiness, a sharp burning pain and a visible mark or welt where the wasp’s stinger punctured the skin. Ouch! Advice for treating a wasp sting Always thoroughly clean the area with soap and water to remove the venom. You can also apply an ice pack or cold compress to reduce swelling and take an over-the-counter antihistamine. Raising the affected area can also help as elevation can help to reduce swelling. Try not to scratch the affected area as this can lead to infections and cause more issues. If you’ve been stung by a wasp and your symptoms don’t improve over the next few days or you’re worried about a wasp sting or the wound becomes infected (for example pus, increased pain / swelling / redness) then contact your GP or call NHS 111 for advice. When wasps are a threat to public health Where someone’s body reacts adversely to a wasp sting, they can experience an allergic reaction. In some cases, an allergy can become quite serious; in rare cases fatal. If you or someone you’re with is stung by a wasp or wasps and experience any of the following symptoms you should seek immediate medical assistance: Swelling of the face, lips or throat (anaphylaxis), difficulty swallowing Dizziness Hives or itchiness in areas of the body not directly affected by the sting Feeling lightheaded and nauseous or vomiting Loss of consciousness Stomach cramps Sudden drop in blood pressure, weak or racing pulse or fast heart rate Wheezing, breathing difficulties Dial 999 for an ambulance if you or someone else displays signs of a severe reaction. At PGM & Son Wasp Control Hereford we will always do our best to prioritise call outs where there is a clear and immediate threat to public health. Please let us know when you call if you, or a member of your family, has an allergy to wasp stings so that we can do our best to get to you as soon as possible. If you are a business or public service across Herefordshire and you have a problem with wasps, call us at PGM & Son Wasp Control Hereford as we can treat any wasp nest that may present a risk to your customers or the public. If you have a wasp problem, give PGM and Son Hereford a call – we offer a fast, reliable, local service across Herefordshire, 01981 540088 or 07964 370480 today to help with all your pest needs. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

This week we’re looking at the GOOD, the BAD and the UGLY – Not the Spaghetti Western but the European and Asian Hornets. The Good The Hornet is Mother Nature’s pest controller. They feed on aphids, which makes them a gardener’s dream and the hornet is an important pollinator. Despite their fearsome appearance the hornet isn’t actually an aggressive pest. Hornets are quite shy insects and, away from their nest, it’s very rare to encounter a run-in with a hornet. Hornets are also relatively uncommon. The Bad Hornets are big, much bigger than the common wasp and due to their size and features their appearance can be alarming. They also make a very loud buzzing noise which can be quite frightening, particularly near a hornet nest. Hornets can sting multiple times and, due to the level of venom they carry a single sting can be extremely painful. The Ugly The Asian hornet! Although the Asian hornet doesn’t pose any greater risk to humans than their European cousin, they pose a serious threat to honey bee populations. They cause major damage to honey bee colonies and you know how we LOVE OUR BEES AT PGM PEST CONTROL! What to Do If You Spot a Hornet’s Nest? If you’ve found a hornet’s nest you should call a professional pest controller to give you advice and NEVER APPROACH OR TOUCH OR ATTEMPT TO MOVE A HORNETS’ NEST YOURSELF. If you’ve got a hornet nest, don’t panic – call PGM Pest Control today on 01981 540088. Or us the live chat facility on our website to chat to a pest expert today. We’ll get rid of hornets for you, treat hornets’ nests and destroy and remove hornets’ nests for you. And we don’t just stop at tackling hornets’ nests – give us a call if you’ve got a wasp problem or any other pest problem for that matter!

Worried about Wasps? With already a sharp incline in the wasp calls, this week we’re looking at some interesting facts about wasps and why wasps aren’t all bad. 6 Interesting Wasp facts you probably don't know There are over 7,000 species of wasp in the UK? A spider wasp will paralyse their prey and their larvae then eat their spider victim alive! They are the insect version of Hannibal Lecter! The UK weather helps to manage our wasps - the biggest wasp nests are generally found in Australia where the winter climate is milder – there can be up to two million workers in those nests – imagine! In the UK we don’t generally see our wasp nests getting that big as the winter tends to stop them growing to their full potential. Honey bees die when they sting but if a wasp loses its sting, it will just make more venom – this makes them a formidable insect warrior! A social wasp that is upset will emit a pheromone which is like a call for help from other wasps. A entire upset wasp colony means big trouble! Even though a wasp nest can typically hold thousands of wasps, there is only ever one Queen – Girl Power! Wasp Benefits to Nature Wasps are an important contributor to the eco-system – they are early pollinators Wasps are a natural predator – they help keep the insect and spider population down Wasps are a gardeners’ friend – they keep catch insect prey such as caterpillars and green fly If you are a business or public service across Herefordshire and you have a problem with wasps, call us at PGM & Son Wasp Control Hereford as we can treat any wasp nest that may present a risk to your customers or the public. Call us today for wasp help, support and guidance on 01981 540088. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or us the live chat facility on our website.

The wasp season is well and truly underway and set to continue with throughout the next few months. The Hereford Times reported last week the very sad news of the death of a Tenbury Wells resident who suffered anaphylactic shock following a wasp sting. This story, whilst thankfully rare, highlights how dangerous wasps can be. And just this week, we received a call from a customer who attempted to treat a wasp nest himself and was pursued by an extremely angry swarm of wasps! He told us he won’t be making that mistake twice! It’s important not to panic or worry though because the stories we’ve reported on above are rare. In fact, wasps will only usually attack people if they feel they are threatened. So, if you leave a wasp alone, chances are that they will also give you a wide berth too! But if you do scare a wasp be aware that it might call for backup – wasps in distress emit a pheromone that colony members nearby will pick up and defensive wasps start a stinging frenzy. Treating a wasp nest can be extremely dangerous and that’s why you need to call in the professional pest controllers. Pest controllers have access to solutions not available to the general public. Plus, we’re fully trained and qualified. We wear protective clothing and we know our pests! What to do if you find a Wasp Nest? Wasps aren’t all bad though. They can be beneficial in gardens as they feed their grubs on caterpillars and other insects. They act as a natural predator. Wasp nests come in all shapes and sizes and in all places – we’ve seen some in some surprising places, for example, in a BBQ – not a great place to have a wasp nest. They’ve also been found in toilet cisterns and brass instruments. Wasp nests start off quite small but can grow to very large sizes during summer and they can contain thousands of wasps. The earlier a wasp nest is treated, the less aggressive the colony will be. DIY products rarely work on wasp nests, particularly large established nests. Worried about Wasps? If you have a problem with Wasps call us today for help, support and guidance on 01981 540088 or use our live chat facility to talk to a pest expert now. Learn more about wasps and our removal process. Call PGM & Son Pest Control – pest control solutions across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or check us out on social medial @pgmpestcontrol #MakePestControlGreenAgain

Calling all Landlords and Letting Agents If you own rental properties or act as an agent for rental properties in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, you could benefit from PGM & SON Pest Control’s Landlord and Letting Agents’ “Clean Bill of Health” Service. What is the PGM Pest Control “Clean Bill of Health” Service? PGM & SON Pest Control offer a clean bill of health service across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. We’ll carry out a site survey prior to re-letting to check for signs of pest activity. Pest activity normally includes common vermin such as rats, mice, fleas, bedbugs, ants, mites and cockroaches. Once we’ve given your property the once over, we’ll provide you with a “clean bill of health” certificate that you can show to letting agents / prospective tenants. Our certificate may also prove useful for demonstrating you’ve met your responsibilities as a responsible landlord, for example, to Environmental Health, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Local Authorities and insurers. Why do Landlords need the PGM Clean Bill of Health Pest Control Service? The tenancy agreement may say that the Landlord is responsible for dealings with pests and vermin. However, even if your tenancy agreement contains express terms making the tenant responsible for dealing with pests / vermin, it’s likely that the Landlord will still have some responsibilities which may make them accountable for pest control. For example, ensuring that the property is free from pests prior to letting, keeping the property in a good state of repair and addressing issues promptly and effectively so that problems don’t arise or get worse. The Landlord is required by law to repair and maintain a property and remove all hazards. If you let a furnished property and the problem with pests was there when your tenant moved in, then it’s likely that you and not the tenant, is responsible regardless of what the tenancy agreement says. That’s why our clean bill of health service is important. PGM & SON Pest Control Services in Hereford can provide you with a clean bill of health certificate evidencing that the property was free from pests prior to re-let. You can let your property to new tenants safe in the knowledge you’ve discharged your responsibility from day one. And, we don’t just do a sweep of your property, we also give advice and recommendations on any preventative measures / proofing as part of the service. For example, we’ll point out holes that have appeared in your property that you may not have been aware of which may give access to pests if left un-resolved. We offer value for money pest control services to landlords and letting agents across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Other rental property pest control services Sometimes pest problems arise despite your best efforts. You may have instructed property repairs which haven’t been carried out properly or neighbouring properties may be passing on a pest problem to your property or your tenants’ lifestyle may invite pest activity. But don’t worry, give us a call at PGM & Son Herefordshire and Worcestershire and we’ll come and treat your pest problems. PGM & SON Hereford also offer an end of tenancy fumigation service for residential and council properties. If your tenants leave your furnished property with unwanted bed bugs or fleas, call us to come in and fumigate for you. If we carry out a clean bill of health check and find you have a pest problem, we’ll treat it for you giving you peace of mind. Afterall, a property is a big investment and it makes sense to maintain your investment! And, Landlords that refer us to their tenants may benefit from reduced rates on clean bill of health checks and end of tenancy fumigation. To avoid pest problems in your rental property in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, call PGM & SON Pest Control. We’ll discuss our services with you to find the best fit for your property portfolio, keeping your property free from pests and making sure you meet your legal responsibilities. Call us now on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480 or email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Are you looking for the best and affordable Pest Control Company in Hereford? We provide the most effective pest control treatments to eliminate any pest problem for residential and commercial properties. ​ Our team are trained and certified to protect your home or business from any pest. ​ Wasp Nest Removal | Rat Infestations | Mice | Moles | Carpet Moths | Carpet Beetles | Cluster Flies | Cockroaches | Birds | Ants | Fleas | Hornets | Bedbugs | Termite Control | Waste Removal and more! a family run business Your Satisfaction Is Our Priority ​ 24 Hour Pest Control Company In Herefordshire and Worcestershire Need some help & advice with a pest problem? We have it covered, contact us today for a free non obligation quote click here

As cluster flies are mostly found in rural areas so it's not surprising that Herefordshire and Worcestershire residents experience cluster fly issues. Why are they called cluster flies? These are called cluster flies because of their habit of forming clusters when they are hibernating. What should you know about cluster flies? The presence of cluster flies is not a sign of poor hygiene. Usually households in more rural situations experience problems with cluster flies so location makes a difference. When are cluster flies are problem? Cluster flies often cause a problem during the Autumn. They gather in significant numbers on walls and windows during the day and then retire into roof spaces during the night. When Autumn months are warmer, people might experience problems with cluster flies into the Winter months as well. As temperatures drop, the cluster flies will crawl under the eaves and fascia and roof spaces to hibernate safely over the winter. Are cluster flies dangerous? Cluster flies aren’t harmful, but they can be a nuisance. If they gather in significant numbers they can be unsightly in your home. For businesses this can cause a real problem as they will almost certainly put off customers in your business. They can also leave dark coloured spots on walls and windows which can be difficult to clean and look off putting. When cluster flies die in false ceilings and wall voids, particularly in significant numbers, they can start to smell. And, importantly, dead cluster flies may attract other pests such a rodents which can cause a public health issue. I had cluster flies treated last year and they’ve come back again! Unfortunately, this is a common problem because cluster flies tend to return to the same location year after year. If you had a cluster fly issue last year you are more likely to experience another one again. Some people assume the problem wasn’t treated properly the first time around but this is not correct. If you had a cluster fly issue in previous years and you’ve got them again it doesn’t mean previous treatments failed. Unfortunately, what it does mean is that you can expect your visitors every year. However, don’t become despondent about this. Once you’re aware of this, it can help manage expectations and also enable you to get prepared to treat the problem as soon as it arrives. If you’re having a problem with cluster flies, call us today to help. We can treat your cluster fly problem and we can also clean up any pest waste for you. No more dead flies on the carpet to! If you’re in need of pest control call in the pest experts today – PGM & SON Pest Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Call us on 01981 540088 or 07964 370 480 Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

As the first green shoots of Spring start to appear, we’re all looking forward to better weather and a gradual lifting of restrictions so we can all enjoy a happy, and healthy Summer. As the weather starts to warm up, it’s the season for cluster flies as they start to emerge from hibernation to seek outdoor sites to lay their eggs. Cluster flies often return to the same location year after year and so, unfortunately, if you’ve experienced a problem previously you may well suffer again. Prevention is unrealistic for cluster flies but once this is accepted, steps can be taken to sort out the problem. Cluster flies become a serious problem and a major pest in rural homes Cluster flies are not filth flies but they are a can be a serious problem when they congregate in huge numbers around living quarters. A mass of cluster flies has a very strong characteristic smell and they can be a nuisance in both properties and businesses. If you have a caravan or holiday home, you won’t want your first visit of the season to be marred by a mass of cluster flies. Whilst you can hoover up cluster flies, heavier infestations are better treated by a qualified pest controller who can use insecticides or smoke generators to remove the problem. Proofing your home, caravan or business can also help to reduce numbers but ultimately it is very difficult to control any fly problem due to the nature of the pest. There are some steps that can be taken to try to reduce the problem such as sealing windows and other entry points. PEST ADVICE, SUPPORT & GUIDANCE, FROM PGM & SON, AWARD WINNING PEST CONTROL If you’ve got a problem with Cluster Flies, give PGM & SON Pest Control Hereford a call on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480 for a free no-obligation chat. We’re always on the end of the ‘phone for advice so don’t worry about your cluster fly problems, give us a call now! If you prefer, you can email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or you can use the live chat facility on our website.

Adapting to Change: Key Updates on Second-Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides - A Two-Year Preparation Period for Pest Controllers, Gamekeepers, and Farmers In response to the recent update from the UK Rodenticide Stewardship Regime, professionals in pest control, gamekeeping, and farming are granted a two-year transition to prepare for significant changes concerning second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs). Despite resistance from certain farming organisations, the directors of the stewardship regime, operated by the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use UK (CRRU), deemed these changes essential for the regime to fulfil its purpose. Starting from January 2026, all purchasers and users of professional SGAR products are required to possess either a stewardship-specific training certificate, less than five years old, or an older one along with evidence of membership in a stewardship-specific Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme. "The most recent headline is that a stubbornly static 80% of barn owls carry residues of one or more SGARs. These changes are designed to strengthen stewardship and protect essential uses of rodenticides for all professional user sectors, especially farmers, by meeting GOG environmental targets". Dr Alan Buckle, CRRU chairman As the expiration dates of five-year certificates approach, holders have the option to either undergo training for requalification or join a CPD scheme. Since January 2023, all stewardship-specific training and certification approved by CRRU has been independently regulated by Ofqual. All qualifying CPD schemes will also be CRRU-approved. Two are already available from BPCA Registered and Basis Prompt, with more expected to follow in 2024. Stay informed and prepare for a sustainable future in pest management. Since its inception in 2016, the regime, led by the HSE Government Oversight Group, aimed to reduce wildlife exposure to rodenticides. The primary indicator of this goal is the incidence of SGAR residues in annual surveys of deceased barn owls submitted to the Predatory Bird Monitoring Scheme by the public. Despite advancements in competence, best practices, increased awareness of potential adverse impacts of rodenticides on wildlife, and mitigation efforts across all three user groups, the target to minimise wildlife exposure to rodenticides, as set by CRRU chairman Dr. Alan Buckle, has yet to be fully achieved. Looking for a reliable solution to tackle pest challenges in Herefordshire and Worcestershire? Our award-winning pest control services are designed to keep your home or business pest-free throughout the year. With a team of experienced professionals, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we take pride in delivering effective and environmentally friendly pest management solutions. Don't just take our word for it, read what our customers are saying about us in our reviews. Reach out now for a pest-free future!

Pest-Related Diseases Report Spurs PGM & SON Pest Control to Advocate for Enhanced Collaboration Between Pest Professionals and Public Health Bodies. In response to the recent update from the BPCA, we at PGM & SON Pest Control, an award-winning company in Herefordshire, find ourselves echoing the call for closer links between pest professionals and public health bodies. The urgency of this collaboration has been underscored by the UK Health Security Agency's report on animal-associated infections. Having meticulously assessed the impact of pest management on Lyme disease and leptospirosis in England during Q3 2023, we stress the critical importance of public health agencies recognising and valuing the indispensable role played by pest professionals. Our commitment to excellence in pest control aligns with the broader goal of safeguarding public health, and we believe that a harmonious partnership between our industry and public health authorities is essential for addressing the challenges highlighted in the report. As an award-winning pest control company in Herefordshire, PGM & SON remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of pest management practices. We welcome the opportunity to contribute our expertise and collaborate seamlessly with public health agencies to enhance preventive measures, promote awareness, and protect our communities from the risks associated with pest-related diseases. In the face of these findings, we stand ready to work hand in hand with public health bodies, emphasising the shared responsibility we carry in ensuring the well-being of our local population. Together, let us build a resilient and initiative-taking defence against the threats posed by pest-related diseases, forging a path towards a healthier and safer future for all. The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has issued a compelling call for strengthened collaboration between pest professionals and public health bodies, prompted by the UK Health Security Agency's report on animal-associated infections in England (December 2023). PGM & SON Pest Control Advocates Collaborative Action for Public Health in the Wake of BPCA's Zoonotic Diseases Report BPCA's thorough assessment of the impact of pest management on Lyme disease and leptospirosis during Q3 2023 highlights a pressing need for public health agencies to acknowledge and appreciate the indispensable work carried out by pest professionals. The urgency of this collaboration is underscored by the potentially life-threatening nature of zoonotic diseases, which are transmitted from animals to humans, often through direct contact. BPCA urges public health agencies to value and incorporate the expertise of pest management professionals in their initiatives. Pests such as rats, mice, birds, and ticks have been identified as carriers of these zoonotic diseases in the UK. The BPCA's findings shed light on the critical role that pest management plays in mitigating the risks associated with these diseases, emphasising the need for a united front in addressing these challenges. As an award-winning company in Herefordshire, PGM & SON Pest Control recognises the gravity of the situation and shares the BPCA's commitment to fostering a closer alliance between our industry and public health bodies. We understand the significant impact that pests can have on public health, and we are dedicated to contributing our expertise to the collaborative efforts aimed at prevention and control. In the face of these findings, it is imperative that public health agencies recognise the essential work carried out by pest professionals in safeguarding communities from the threats posed by zoonotic diseases. PGM & SON Pest Control stands ready to actively participate in this collaborative endeavour, reinforcing our shared responsibility for the well-being of the local population. Together, let us forge a robust alliance, combining our strengths to create a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses the immediate concerns highlighted by the BPCA but also lays the groundwork for a resilient and proactive approach to pest-related public health challenges in the future. Inspect. Detect. Protect. The Right People, The Right Solutions. A family run business, proud to say that we put our customers first. © PGM & SON LTD. 2024 | All rights reserved T: 01981 540088 | M: 07964 370480 contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

Key Takeaways: January: Pests to Look Out for This Month Rodents Silverfish Moths Spiders Cluster Flies Woodlice Bird Mites A Guide to Common Intruders in the UK As winter blankets the United Kingdom, the chilly temperatures may give us a temporary break from many pests. However, January brings its own set of challenges as certain creatures adapt to the cold and seek refuge indoors. Let's explore the pests you're likely to encounter in the UK during this month. Rodents: Winter prompts rodents like mice and rats to find warmth indoors. They can squeeze through small openings, so it's crucial to seal any gaps in walls or around windows. Maintaining cleanliness in your home can help prevent these unwelcome guests. < Rodent information > Silverfish: Often found in damp and dark areas, silverfish become more active in the winter. Ensure proper ventilation in your home, fix leaks promptly, and use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels, making your space less appealing to these pests. < Silverfish Information > Moths: Winter woolens stored away in lofts or closets can become a breeding ground for clothes moths. Regularly inspect and clean storage areas, and consider using moth repellents or cedar blocks to protect your clothing. < Moth Information > Spiders: While most spiders are harmless, they can become more noticeable in the winter as they seek warmth indoors. Keep your home dust and clutter-free, seal entry points to discourage these eight-legged visitors. Cluster Flies: Cluster flies are known for seeking shelter in homes during colder months. They often gather in large groups, especially in lofts and wall voids. To prevent infestations, seal entry points and consider professional pest control if the situation escalates. < Cluster Fly Information > Woodlice: These tiny, crustacean-like pests thrive in damp environments. Ensure proper ventilation, fix any leaks, and keep the humidity in check to make your home less appealing to woodlice. < Woodlice Information > Bird Mites: For those with bird nests nearby, bird mites can become an issue as they search for a new host. If you notice an infestation, it's crucial to address the bird nest problem and seek professional pest control assistance for mite removal. < Bird Mite Information > Remember, prevention is key when it comes to managing pests. Regular maintenance, cleanliness, and addressing potential entry points will go a long way in keeping your home pest-free during the winter months in the UK. If a pest issue persists, consulting with a professional pest control service can provide effective solutions tailored to your specific situation. Stay vigilant, and enjoy a pest-free start to the new year! We'll be writing a UK Pest Control Calendar soon so it will be easy for you to see what pests to spot month on month. Looking for a reliable solution to tackle pest challenges in Hereford and Worcester? Our award-winning pest control services are designed to keep your home or business pest-free throughout the year. With a team of experienced professionals, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we take pride in delivering effective and environmentally friendly pest management solutions. Don't just take our word for it, read what our customers are saying about us in our reviews. Don't let pests disrupt your peace of mind – contact us today for a personalised assessment and experience the difference with our friendly pest control services. Trust the experts to safeguard your space, so you can enjoy a pest-free environment in every season. Your satisfaction is our priority, and our award-winning team is ready to assist you. Reach out now for a pest-free future!