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Having experienced a significant increase in rodent issues across Herefordshire the last few months we’ve been catapulted into Spring with an uptake in cluster fly calls. We regularly report on cluster fly problems across Herefordshire at this time of the year as the first shoots of Spring start to appear and the weather shows signs of improvement. Cluster fly problems across Herefordshire are seasonal and occur in the Spring and Autumn. In the Spring, cluster flies emerge from their Winter hibernation and start the task of seeking suitable outdoor sites to lay their eggs and carrying on the cluster fly cycle. We are often asked about the issue of cluster flies re-occurring Unfortunately, the fact is that cluster tend to return to the same locations across Herefordshire each year it is an unfortunate fact that if you have experienced a cluster fly issue previously you will likely suffer the same fate in the future. For this reason, we always try to educate Herefordshire residents that cluster fly prevention is unrealistic but please don’t worry because there are steps you can take to sort out your cluster fly problems ! Cluster Fly Fact Although cluster flies can be a nuisance and also a disturbance due to the numbers in which they congregate, Herefordshire residents should be assured that cluster flies are not considered “filth” flies. That said, cluster flies in significant numbers not only cause a nuisance but they can create a mess and the smell cluster flies emit in numbers is very strong and off putting. Tips on Dealing with Cluster Flies Proof your home, caravan or holiday home to reduce the numbers of cluster flies entering your property Hoover up your cluster flies Cluster Fly Control Services in Herefordshire If you have a heavy cluster fly infestation in Herefordshire it’s likely to be better treated by a qualified pest controller who can use insecticides or smoke generators to resolve your cluster fly problem. Professional pest controllers have access to solutions not available to the general Herefordshire public and the skills, knowledge and expertise to deal with the cluster fly problem. Read our most FAQs about cluster flies to answer your queries. If you’ve got a problem with Cluster Flies, give PGM & Son Cluster Fly Control Services a call on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480 for a free no-obligation chat. If you prefer, you can email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or you can use the pest assist facility on the bottom right hand side of your screen for help, support and guidance.

The Importance of Proactive Pest Control Pest control is often viewed as a reactive measure, something you consider only after discovering an infestation. However, proactive pest control is far more effective and beneficial in the long run. It not only saves you money but also protects your health, property, and reputation. In this article, we'll explore the importance of proactive pest control, discuss specific strategies for common pests, and delve into integrated pest management techniques. Before considering pest control have you got the basics right? Are pests likely to find food sources, water and nice places for harbourage (places to live) in or around the vicinity of your business or home? Everyone needs to take a close look at their surroundings and their own behaviour when the pests arrive. If you can stop pests finding food, water and harbourage they won’t want to stay. Why is proactive pest control so important? Regularly using poisons is unethical because of the potential harm to non-target species. Accidental poisoning of other wild animals such as otters, owls and other birds of prey is common and don’t forget about domestic animals too – no-one wants to see their family dogs and cats fall foul to poisons laid down to treat vermin . Additionally, there is the potential for the rodent population to build up a tolerance when using poisons. Pest controllers regularly see this, particularly when people use household poisons purchased from local shops and online retailers. These DIY products, often marketed as quick and easy solutions for pest problems, can lead to a range of complications that many homeowners and businesses may not anticipate. Specific Pest Identification and Prevention Strategies Different pests require different approaches. Here are some common pests and tailored strategies for preventing their infestations: Rodents Rodents are notorious for causing damage and spreading diseases. To prevent rodent infestations: Seal Entry Points: Use steel wool or caulk to block any holes or gaps around pipes, vents, and doors. Proper Food Storage : Keep food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs and spills promptly. Eliminate Clutter : Keep your home or business tidy, as clutter provides hiding places for rodents. Insects Insects can be just as problematic, ranging from ants and cockroaches to termites and bed bugs. Here’s how to prevent their infestations: Manage Moisture : Fix any water leaks and ensure good ventilation to reduce humidity. Remove Standing Water : Regularly check for and eliminate standing water around your property. Use Screens : Install screens on windows and vents to prevent insects from entering. Proper Waste Disposa l: Keep trash cans tightly sealed and regularly clean them. Wood-boring Insects Wood-boring insects like woodworm, termites and carpenter ants can cause significant structural damage. To prevent their infestations: Identify and Treat Affected Wood : Regularly inspect wooden structures for signs of infestation and treat them promptly. Preventative Treatments : Apply preventative treatments to new wood constructions to deter infestations. Benefits of Proactive Pest Control Proactive pest control offers numerous benefits beyond just preventing infestations: Cost Savings Dealing with an infestation can be expensive. Proactive measures are generally cheaper and more effective in the long run. Health and Safety Pests can transmit diseases and cause allergic reactions. Proactive pest control helps protect your health by reducing the risk of pest-related health issues. Reputation Management For businesses, preventing pest problems is crucial for maintaining a good reputation. A pest infestation can lead to negative reviews and lost customers. Businesses may face lawsuits if customers or employees suffer health issues due to pest infestations. Regulations and Compliance For businesses, it's important to comply with relevant pest control regulations. This includes maintaining records of pest control activities and ensuring that all methods used are compliant with local laws. Pest infestations are not just a nuisance; they can also lead to serious legal consequences for businesses . In the UK, various laws and regulations mandate that businesses must maintain pest-free environments, particularly in industries like food service, healthcare, and hospitality. Key Takeaway : Good housekeeping may prevent up to 65% of potential pest activity. Got Pests? We've Got it Covered! At PGM & Son we offer advice and solutions , both for any existing problem and potential pest problems through our preventative pest control and integrated pest management systems. We provide professional pest control solutions to keep your property safe, clean and pest-free. Call us today for help, support and guidance on 01981 540088 or email support contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Live Chat, Expert Advice Straight from the Pest Pros!

Food Waste Action Week Food Waste Action Week is an annual campaign that aims to raise awareness about the impact of food waste on the environment, economy, and society. The campaign is led by the environmental charity, WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme), and typically takes place in March. During Food Waste Action Week, individuals, businesses, and organisations are encouraged to take action to reduce food waste, such as by planning meals, using up leftovers, composting food scraps, and supporting local food banks. The campaign also highlights the economic and environmental benefits of reducing food waste, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, saving money, and conserving natural resources. The campaign includes a range of activities and events, including social media campaigns, educational resources, and community events, to engage individuals and businesses in food waste reduction efforts. The goal of Food Waste Action Week is to encourage people to make small changes in their daily lives that can have a big impact on reducing food waste, creating a more sustainable food system and working together to halve food waste by 2030. How food waste action can help with pest control Reducing food waste is great for pest control Pests need the right conditions to survive, and this includes food, water, and a place to live So, tackling a food source is one of the key things you can do to control pests in a way that is less harmful to the environment Our top tips for managing food sources for rats and mice: CLEAN IT. When you’ve finished making meals clean up properly – wipe down sides and clean crumbs from the floors. Less mess means less to attract pests. STORE IT. Invest in containers to store your food and rubbish that are secure. Keep lids on bins and cover leftovers. DISPOSE OF IT. Regularly empty your bins, recycle your empties and dispose of rubbish correctly. USE LESS. Reduce your food waste by using less. Plan your meals in advance so you only buy what you need. Use up what you have before buying more. REMEMBER: CLEAN IT, STORE IT, DISPOSE OF IT AND USE LESS! WRAP is a climate action NGO working around the globe to tackle the causes of the climate crisis and give the planet a sustainable future. It was established in the UK in 2000 and now works in 40+ countries. Check out their website for some great tips on how to reduce your food waste: https://wrap.org.uk/taking-action/food-drink/actions To reduce pests in the home or business while considering the above tips on food waste action, you can take the following steps: 1. Dispose of food waste properly : Make sure to dispose of food waste in sealed containers or in compost bins away from the building. Avoid leaving food waste out overnight, and make sure garbage cans are properly secured. 2. Keep storage areas clean: Regularly clean and sanitise storage areas like pantries, store cupboards, and refrigerators to prevent pests from finding food sources. Wipe down counters and sweep floors to eliminate crumbs and spills. 3. Don't overstock: Avoid overstocking food items and keep inventory levels to a minimum. This will reduce the chances of attracting pests. 4. Store food in airtight containers: Use airtight containers to store food and keep them sealed when not in use. This will make it more difficult for pests to detect and access the food source. 5. Regularly clean: Regularly clean the kitchen and dining areas, including dishes, counters, floors, and rubbish bins, to eliminate food debris and discourage pests from visiting. 6. Seal up entry points: Inspect the building for entry points like cracks, holes, or gaps in windows and doors, and seal them up to prevent pests from entering. 7. Hire a professional pest control service: If you have a persistent pest problem, consider hiring a pest control professional to help identify the source of the problem and provide effective solutions. By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of pests entering and thriving in your home or business while also preventing food waste from becoming a pest attraction. Taking action to reduce food waste can help prevent pests from finding and accessing food sources, making pest control efforts more effective. If you’ve done all you can to reduce your risk of pests and you still find you have a rat, mice, cockroach or fly problem give PGM & Son Pest Control a call. For all your pest needs, call us on 01981 540088 or visit our website at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or drop us an email to contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Or visit our most popular pest control services related to food waste = Rat and Rodent Control Services Ant Control Services Cockroach Control Services OUR FAMILY AND PET FRIENDLY TECHNOLOGIES HAVE MADE PGM & SON A LEADER IN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY PEST CONTROL - WE ARE REDEFINING THE INDUSTRY. Because we’re a local, family run business we genuinely care about our community. Residents of Hereford and Worcester who deal with PGM & SON recognise this in their support of our business by coming back to us in future and referring us to others. All our technicians are highly trained and certified pest controllers.

Having a problem with pest waste? Need pest mess removed? We’ve got it covered! Are bird droppings ruining your brickwork? Is rats’ urine causing a nasty smell in your loft? Is your business being targeted by pests? Have tenants left your property in a mess? Don’t worry, we can help! PGM & SON Pest Control carry out professional pest clearance and pest waste removal services at residential and commercial properties. We can clean, clear and remove pest waste, carcasses and general debris from lofts, garden sheds, garages and outhouses and office, factory, warehouse and containers. What can you expect from PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford’s Waste Clearance and Cleaning Service? Removal of pest waste , carcasses and general debris (including rubbish and your old junk!) Professional cleaning of pest waste including pigeon guano, rat and mice droppings, bird droppings, nesting materials and animal faeces Careful disposal of waste ; safe removal of contaminated insulation Has your building got asbestos? Not a problem – we work with trusted and approved contractors who are qualified to assist us under such circumstances We arrange for onsite skips or use or waste carriers’ licence to remove waste if you property has limited access Who benefits from our pest waste cleaning and clearance services? Residential properties – loft / attics; cellars; sheds; garages; outhouses and annexes End of tenancy clearance Commercial clearance and cleaning in shops; pubs; bars; cafes Work for landlords; estate agents; schools; churches; housing associations; local authorities We can also offer crime scene cleaning and trauma scene cleaning Ten reasons why you should choose PGM & Son Pest Control Hereford for your professional waste cleaning? Local, family run business Reliable, fast, effective Transparent, competitive pricing Environmentally friendly Fully licenced waste carriers £5m public liability NPTA members RSPH qualified Customer satisfaction guaranteed Award winning pest control services 2019 Get in touch today for a free no-obligation quote.

Key Takeaways Understanding the signs of rodent infestations is crucial for prompt action. The UK is facing a significant rise in rodent infestations, known as the 'ratflation' crisis. Private pest control services are experiencing a surge in demand due to limited support from local councils. In regions like Worcestershire and Herefordshire, access to council assistance for pest control is severely limited or non-existent. Collaboration between authorities, communities, and private pest control services is essential to effectively combat the crisis. Understanding the signs of rodent infestations is crucial for prompt action In recent years, the UK has found itself grappling with a growing crisis – one that is not only concerning but also creeping into the very fabric of our homes and communities. We're talking about the alarming surge in rodent infestations, aptly dubbed as the 'Ratflation' crisis by the British Pest Control Association (BPCA). Phil Martin, an award-winning pest controller at PGM & Son Pest Control, sheds light on this pressing issue, offering invaluable insights on how to identify the tell-tale signs of infestations and what actions can be taken to address them. His expertise, shared during an interview with Jonathan Ray on BBC , underscores the severity of the situation. The UK is facing a significant rise in rodent infestations, known as the 'ratflation' crisis According to BPCA, the statistics are grim. Last year alone, there were over a quarter of a million home visits made by pest control professionals to tackle rat and mice infestations across the UK. To put it into perspective, that's nearly 750 visits per day . Such staggering numbers indicate a crisis that demands urgent attention and effective solutions. Private Pest Control Services are Experiencing a Surge in Demand Due to Limited Support from Local Councils Adding to the gravity of the situation is the dwindling support from local councils. With only a quarter of them continuing to offer pest removal services, the burden falls heavily on individuals and households to fend off these unwanted invaders. The situation is particularly dire in regions like Worcestershire and Herefordshire, where access to council assistance for pest control is severely limited, if not non-existent. In regions like Worcestershire and Herefordshire, access to council assistance for pest control is severely limited or non-existent In most parts of Worcestershire, council aid for pest removal is contingent upon being on benefits, leaving many without recourse. Meanwhile, Herefordshire presents an even bleaker scenario, offering no domestic pest removal service whatsoever. This stark reality underscores the crucial role played by private contractors in alleviating the pest burden borne by communities. In the face of this escalating crisis, it's imperative for homeowners and business proprietors to be vigilant and proactive. Understanding the signs of infestations and promptly seeking professional assistance can help mitigate the risks posed by pests. Moreover, there's a pressing need for greater collaboration between authorities, communities, and private pest control services to effectively combat the 'Ratflation' crisis. Collaboration between authorities, communities, and private pest control services is essential to effectively combat the crisis. As we navigate through these challenging times of climate change, it's evident that raising awareness and advocating for robust pest control measures are paramount. Together, we can stem the tide of infestations and reclaim our homes from the relentless encroachment of rodents. Let's not allow 'Ratflation' to become the new norm – it's time to take a stand against pests and safeguard our communities. If you have a rat infestation let us help! < Rat and Rodent Pest Control Services >

Now we’re into Autumn we’re starting to see cluster flies as they gather in the roof spaces and upper rooms of properties to hibernate, often in significantly large numbers. I had pest control in last year to treat cluster flies and they’re back again? Unfortunately, this is a common problem because cluster flies tend to return to the same location year after year so if you had a cluster fly issue in previous years and you’ve got them again it doesn’t mean your pest controller failed. Unfortunately, what it does mean is that you can expect your visitors once a year. However, 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. Cluster flies have a characteristic smell and are sluggish in flight. Cluster flies are a nuisance in the house in particular due to the large numbers in which they congregate. There is one species of cluster fly which is far more prevalent in rural areas such as Herefordshire due to the fact they are parasitic on earthworms. So, it’s not a surprise that so many Herefordshire residents and business owners experience cluster fly problems. If you’re having a problem with house flies, cluster flies, blue bottles or any other pests call PGM & SON Pest Control Hereford for advice and solutions. We will normally treat a cluster fly problem with an insecticidal fog or smoke generator as this is most effective. It is important to make sure there are no resident bats in your property or business before employing any eradication methods and we’re experienced in spotting evidence of bats so it’s always better to get a professional pest controller in rather than trying to treat the problem yourself. And, once the problem has been treated if you want some help in cleaning and removing the pest waste in a hygienic and efficient way, we can help with that too – ask us about our pest waste cleaning and removal services. If you’re in need of pest control call in the pest experts today – PGM & SON Pest Control Hereford. Call us on 01981 540088 or 07964 370 480. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk Visit our website for more information at www.pgmpestcontrol.co.uk - USE OUR ONLINE CHAT FACILITY - Check out our reviews on Google and Trustpilot

Woodworm can cause serious harm to your home or business, including structural damage which is often costly and time-consuming to resolve. It’s important to catch it as early as possible to avoid long term damage and costly repairs. Signs you may have Woodworm If you’ve got signs of: Holes in your woodwork Tunnels in your wood Bore dust below timber Weak or damaged floorboards Crumbling or decaying wood Live or dead beetles, eggs or larvae You may have spotted the signs of woodworm and therefore professional treatment is recommended. Is Woodworm causing you a problem? Woodworm is a more common term used to describe the larvae of furniture beetle Get in touch on 01981 540088 or use our live chat facility to chat with a woodworm expert for help, support and guidance today. If you'd like to connect with email then please use this address contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

Does DIY Pest Control Work? This week we’re taking a look at DIY pest control. A pest controller s' ‘phone regularly rings with stories from customers who’ve tried unsuccessfully to deal with a pest control problem themselves. Often, we’ll get calls from people who started with a small pest issue that they attempted to handle themselves with various potions they’ve purchased off the internet only to find that they haven’t solved the pest issue, the infestation has got significantly worse and they’re now out of pocket! We popped into a well-known national DIY store recently to check out the DIY pest control products on the market and were amazed at how many products were out there. There were literally dozens on the shelves and when we looked on the internet they run into thousands. Top 5 Reasons Why you Should be Wary about Undertaking DIY Pest Control Yourself You don’t know what you’re doing. Unless you’ve been trained to the same standards as professional pest controllers, it’s unlikely you’ll have the same knowledge and, more importantly, experience as they do. This knowledge, training and experience is essential for resolving pest problems quickly, effectively and humanely. You don’t know what you’re buying. Whilst products in reputable stores which have been through rigorous approval processes might be okay, the internet is an unregulated space and it’s very easy to buy a box or can of something with very little idea of what’s actually in it or whether it has passed, or even been through, a quality control process. You don’t know what you’re eradicating. Professional pest controllers are trained to carry out risk assessments and follow codes of practice to ensure that non-target species aren’t harmed when controlling pests . Imagine how horrified most of you would be to find out that in eradicating the pesky rats in your garden at the same time you accidentally poisoned your family pet, a barn owl or other non-target species. You might make the situation worse. There are various reasons why you might inadvertently make the situation worse but just a couple are that your DIY pest control may not work or work effectively meaning that you could very quickly increase a pest population over a short period of time. Also, some pests are resistant to some chemicals and the more DIY chemicals used, the more the pests evolve to become resistant and that’s a problem for us all! You could spend more in the long run. A pest treatment might seem expensive to you but consider this, repeatedly purchasing DIY products that don’t deal with the issue will soon add up. And, some pests have the ability to cause significant damage. An electric cable gnawed by mice or rats is not only dangerous but could prove costly to put right. And, our wood boring friends such as the Death Watch beetle , have the capacity to cause serious structural problems to properties. DIY PEST CONTROL Tips that WON’T COST A PENNY! Keep your windows and doors shut from pests. Remove your rubbish regularly and keep your bin lids on. Clear up spills and leftovers as soon as you’ve finished eating. Practice good hygiene , clean surfaces regularly; hoover and mop floors. Avoid buying natural fibres that might attract certain pests such as woollen rugs. Move things around your garden regularly to keep the rats on their toes – rats are neo-phobic which means they have a fear of new objects! Keep your garden tidy and cut back. DIY pest control can be a tempting option for homeowners looking to save money and take matters into their own hands. There are several reasons why DIY pest control is a bad idea: Lack of expertise: Pest control professionals have the training and experience to accurately identify pests and determine the best course of action for treatment. DIY solutions may not effectively target the specific type of pest, leading to continued infestations. Ineffective treatment: Pesticides and other pest control methods can be dangerous if not used properly. DIY treatments may not be applied correctly, leading to ineffective results or even harm to humans and pets. Health and safety concerns:  Pesticides and other pest control chemicals can be toxic and may pose a risk to humans and pets if handled improperly. Professionals are trained to safely handle and apply these products to minimize the risk of exposure. Damage to property: Improper application of pest control methods can result in damage to your home or yard. For example, using too much pesticide can kill plants or damage lawns. Legal issues:  In some cases, it may be illegal to use certain pest control methods or products without the proper training or licensing. Conclusion: While DIY pest control may seem like a cost-effective solution, it is often more effective and safer to hire a professional pest control company. If you are experiencing a pest issue then give your local pest controller a call. A professional pest controller will be happy to discuss the issue with you and explore the best options for dealing with your pest problem. For all your pest problems give PGM and Son Rat Control Herefordshire and Worcestershire a call on 01981 540088 or 07964 370480. If you prefer, you can email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or u se the live chat facility on our website and if we’re not available on the live chat for any reason then there’s a handy message service for you to leave your details so we can call you back. We’re always on the end of the ‘phone for advice so don’t worry about your pest problems, give us a call and we'll help solve your pest problems.

What to do if you have a bees nest in Hereford?...Leave them Bee! What great weather we’re having! And we’re starting to see lots of bees pollinating like crazy. At PGM & Son Pest Control WE LOVE OUR BEES! Bees are the key workers of the insect kingdom – they are critical to our eco-system and it is essential that they are protected. Research estimates that bees pollinate a third of all crops, including those which are used to feed livestock to you can see how important they are to the planet. And we reckon our local farmers deserve a big pat on the back for reducing the use of damaging crop sprays. They’ve been doing their bit for our great Herefordshire countryside. And let’s not forget about the conscientious pest controllers amongst us who are taking steps to look after our precious bee population and avoiding unnecessary pest treatments. Did you know that 25% of all bee types are endangered? LEAVE THE BEES ALONE! Our advice to the public is always LEAVE THE BEES ALONE if you can, and let them go about their very important business. During lockdown when lots of children are at home encourage your children to observe the bees going about their work. They are fascinating creatures – bees are not usually aggressive but as with any insect or animal you should respect them so keep your distance if you want to watch them as they pollinate. Top Tip - Tell children they need to social distance with bees as well! The other important thing to remember is that bees will go away and not return to the nesting site after the summer. In fact, by the time most people notice a colony, the activity will be naturally declining. What to do if you have bees Leave them Bee! If you are watching their fascinating work – social distance yourself! When it’s hot bees will be more active so as this is normal, don’t panic! Contact a local beekeeper to see whether they can relocate the nest for you (but only if it’s necessary and you are unable to leave it where it is). If you are worried about bees, give us a call at PGM & Son Hereford as we can talk to you about why bees are important and set your mind at rest about the risk to you. In most cases, the risk of being stung will be very low. In rare situations bees can be hazardous and, where there is a threat to the public, you can contact a pest controller to address the problem. So if you have a bee problem in Herefordshire or Worcestershire you need help with, give PGM & Son Bee Nest Control a call so we can discuss a range of solutions with you, which enable us to live in harmony with our friends the bees. Email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or call us on 01981 540088 / 07964 370480 or use our contact us page on the website for a free no-obligation quote.

Key Takeaways Supporting local businesses strengthens the local economy and creates jobs. Local businesses contribute to community events, charities, and environmental initiatives. By supporting local businesses, you help build a vibrant, thriving community. Local businesses have a vested interest in the success and well-being of their community. The Vital Role of Local Businesses in Our Communities Supporting local businesses is more important than ever. Local family businesses, like ours at PGM and Son Pest Control, play a crucial role in the community, offering personalised services and contributing to the local economy. Here's why it's essential to support your local businesses and how doing so benefits everyone. Local Family Business Local family businesses bring a personal touch to their services. At PGM and Son Pest Control, we pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our customers and providing customised pest control solutions. Our history, values, and commitment to the community set us apart from larger, impersonal corporations. A family operated business is generally truer to its company values as a whole, which gives you - the consumer - confidence in purchasing goods or services. Local businesses rely on word of mouth as well as referrals from other businesses, so it's important to shop local and consider them as a priority. With a local business that is run by a family operation, there is generally a rich business history that supports the company from the foundation up. With a local, family-owned business the chances are much greater of receiving high service and quality. Why Supporting your Local Businesses Matters Economic Benefits: Local businesses keep money within the community, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. Every pound spent locally generates more economic activity in the area. Community Benefits: Local businesses support community events, schools, and charities. They provide personalised services and products tailored to local needs, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Environmental Benefits: Local businesses often have a smaller carbon footprint compared to large chains. Reduced transportation emissions from local sourcing contribute to a healthier environment. How Local Businesses Support the Community Local businesses like PGM and Son Pest Control actively contribute to the community by: Sponsoring local events and sports teams, fostering community spirit. Providing jobs and training opportunities to local residents. Participating in charity drives and environmental initiatives, making a positive impact on local causes. Stay updated in your community and consider asking your neighbour or friends to recommend a services or products that are local before outsourcing from afar. The Vested Interest of Local Businesses Local businesses have a vested interest in the success and well-being of their community because: They rely on local customers for their livelihood, ensuring they provide the best possible service. Their reputation is built on community trust and satisfaction, motivating them to contribute positively to the community. To support local businesses, consider: Shopping at local stores and markets for your daily needs. Using local services and contractors for home improvements and other needs. Spreading the word and recommending local businesses to friends and family. Local Businesses make a Difference Supporting local businesses strengthens the local economy, creates jobs, and contributes to community well-being. By choosing local, you help build a vibrant, thriving community. Visit PGM and Son Pest Control to experience the benefits of supporting a local family business for your pest control needs, we serve the local areas of Herefordshire and Worcestershire. We focus on a beneficial relationship for everyone involved with our services, from our top community partners down to the very last resident in our community. Local businesses rely on customer reviews, so don't forget to take a moment out of your day to write a review when you receive excellent service or have a fantastic meal at your local restaurant or pub. ⬅You can leave us a review here :)

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

Woodworm are destructive creatures. They mainly cause problems to: Floorboards Joinery Structural timbers such as floor joists and rafters – this can cause serious structural damage to a building What is Woodworm? Woodworm is a more common term used to describe the larvae of furniture beetle. How To Tell If You Have Woodworm. Usually, the tell-tale sign is holes appearing in wooden surfaces. Often this will be accompanied by a pile of wood dust underneath. If the hole is fresh the wood inside will normally be clean white wood. The holes are made by emerging adult beetles but behind the scenes immature grubs may be tunnelling their way through the wood causing more destruction. What Does Furniture Beetle Look Like? Adult furniture beetle are around 3mm to 6mm long. They are small brown insects which fly. They lay their eggs on wood and their grubs bore directly into the wood where they remain for around three years before they emerge as adult beetles. The adults usually emerge around May and September. Common Ways Woodworm Access Properties. Second-hand furniture items Tea chests Wicker items Via dead branches of nearby trees – beetles are able to fly through open windows. How is Woodworm Treated? Furniture affected by woodworm is usually treated by coating all surfaces with a woodworm treatment. The fluid may also be injected into exit holes. An insecticide polish may also be used as a precaution. Structural timbers must first be cleaned; it may also be necessary to remove insulation to expose joists so they can also be cleaned and treated. Similarly, floorboards may be lifted to treat the underneath and floor joists. It is usually sensible to to leave structural woodworm to the experts rather than performing DIY treatments. Learn more about Woodworm Treatments and our Frequently Asked Questions. PGM and Son are a local family run pest control service, we love nothing more than helping people solve their pest problems, call us today on 01981 540088 for help, support and guidance. If you prefer, you can email us at contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk or you can use the live chat facility on our website.