Loss-Toxic Methodsto Control and PreventPests In and AroundYour Home

2003 Rev

San FranciscoWater PollutionPrevention Program

(415) 695-7375

Ants, cockroaches, mice, and other pestsare unwelcome visitors in any home. Somepests may even harbor diseases and para-sites that can harm humans and animals.Although we want to get rid of pests asquickly as possible, many pest controlproducts are toxic and can harm humanhealth and the environment when notused, stored, or disposed of properly.

The San Francisco Public UtilitiesCommission has developed this guideto help you:� Identify some common pests in and

around your home;� Use less-toxic methods to control pest

infestations; and� Prevent pests from returning.

Never dispose of pest controlchemicals in drains or in thegarbage.Pest control chemicals poured down streetdrains or indoor drains can harm fish andwildlife in the San Francisco Bay andPacific Ocean. Never pour any pestcontrol chemical in street drains, indoordrains, or into the garbage.

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Your Homeand the Bay

Pesticides can pollute San Francisco Bayand Pacific Ocean when they are poureddown indoor or street drains or when theyare washed off yards and lawns by rain orirrigation into street drains. Once in theunderground sewer system, these productsmay pass through the wastewater treat-ment plant and end up in the Bay andOcean, where they can harm fish andwildlife, and contribute to the build-up oftoxins in the fish we eat.

The City and County of San Francisco isactively reducing the amount of pesticidesit uses to control and prevent pests onCity property.

At home, we can also reduce the amountof pesticides that we use. By workingtogether, we can all prevent water pollution.

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Before you try to eradicate a pest problem,consider selecting the methods which areleast disruptive to the environment and saferfor you and your family.PreventionThe first step in controlling unwanted pestsis to discourage them from living in oraround your home. Throughout this guide,you’ll find simple ways to prevent pests.

IdentificationOnce you have a pest problem, the pestneeds to be properly identified in order todecide how best to remove it and prevent itfrom returning. The backside of this guidewill assist you in identifying pests andtheir habitats. For additional information,contact the San Francisco Department ofConsumer Assurance at (415) 285-5010

Non-Toxic ControlsMany simple non-toxic controls, such asvacuuming, washing surfaces, and sweep-ing, can effectively eliminate pests, and areoutlined in this guide.

Less-Toxic PesticidesIf non-toxic controls aren’t working andthe pest persists, pesticides may be needed.If you choose to use a pesticide, look forthe least-toxic product and follow thedirections on the product label. The activeingredients of some less-toxic products arenoted in this guide.

If you need additional assistance withpests, such as cockroaches, mice,

mosquitoes, pigeons, and rats, contact theSan Francisco Department of Public

Health at (415) 252-3800.

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Less-ToxicControls

Purchasing the right tools and products canhelp you prevent and control pests in andaround your home. Before you purchase aproduct, always read the label carefully forwarnings, contents, and applicationinstructions. Many of these tools and prod-ucts can be purchased at your local hard-ware, garden, or grocery store.ToolsBroom – removes the larvae of clothes moths.Caulking Gun – plugs cracks and creviceswhere pests can enter or hide.Dust Mask – for powders and cleaning.Flea Comb – controls fleas on your pet.Fly Swatter – eliminates flies.Screens – prevent pests from flying or crawlinginto your home.Vacuum Cleaner – removes clothes and grainmoths, ants, cockroaches, and fleas.Weatherstripping – prevents pests from crawl-ing into the home.

ProductsBaits – attract cockroaches, ants, andtermites. (Baits contain pesticides—so besure to thoroughly read the product label.)Containers – glass, ceramic, or heavyplastic containers, with tight-fitting lids, forstoring food.Caulk – seals cracks and crevices where pestscan enter or that can collect food for pests.Sticky Fly Paper – captures flies.Traps – capture yellowjackets, fleas, cock-roaches, flies, grain moths, and rodents.(Some traps contain pesticides—so besure to thoroughly read the product label.)

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ShoppingList

Simple preventive measures discourageover 50% of your unwanted pest problems.Pests need food, water, and shelter tosurvive. By removing these resources, youwill force them to go elsewhere.IndoorsKeep it clean. Pests love leftovers.� Wipe counters and sweep daily to keep

your kitchen free of crumbs. (Ants andcockroaches)

� Do the dishes – don’t let them sit over-night. As a last resort, submerge dishesin soapy water until you have time to dothem. (Ants and cockroaches)

� Keep your stove area clean and free ofcooking grease. (Ants and cockroaches)

� Vacuum and sweep frequently to removefood and eggs. (Cockroaches, dustmites, fleas, grain moths, and spiders)

Don’t feed them.� Store all food in tightly sealed containers.

(Ants, cockroaches, grain moths, androdents)

� Compost food scraps or seal waste inplastic bags and place in a container witha tight fitting lid. (Ants, cockroaches, flies,pigeons, rodents, and yellow jackets)

� Wash recyclables in soapy water anddrain before storing. (Ants, cockroaches,flies, rodents, and yellow jackets)

� Empty the garbage frequently and placein a closed can or dumpster. Keep the areaclean and dry. (Ants, cockroaches, flies,pigeons, rodents, and yellow jackets)

� Remove pet dishes at night or place insoapy moats, like a low baking pan filledwith soapy water. (Ants, cockroaches,flies, and rodents)

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PreventingPests

IndoorsReduce sources of water. Moistureattracts pests.� Remove standing water in trays under

your houseplants and refrigerator. (Ants,cockroaches, mosquitoes, and rodents)

� Fix leaky plumbing promptly. (Ants, cock-roaches, rodents, and termites)

� Check the attic regularly for slow roofleaks. (Termites)

Bar the door. Keep out crawling andflying pests.� Caulk cracks and crevices inside your

home. (Ants and cockroaches)� Seal openings in the walls around base-

boards, in the backs and floors of cabinets,and around shelves. (Ants, cockroaches,and rodents)

� Keep doors to the outside closed when notin use. (Cockroaches, flies, mosquitoes,rodents, and spiders)

Tidy up. Clutter provides homes for pests.� Organize papers and boxes so you can

clean around them. (Cockroaches,rodents, and spiders)

� Recycle newspapers and cartons frequent-ly. (Cockroaches, rodents, and spiders)

� Regularly inspect stored materials forpests. (Ants, cockroaches, clothes moths,grain moths, rodents, and spiders)

� Revive the custom of a thorough springcleaning and routine vacuuming. (Ants,cockroaches, clothes moths, grain moths,rodents, fleas, and spiders)

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PreventingPests

OutdoorsGet them where they hide. Pests can’tset up house if you get rid of thematerials that shelter them.� Trim plants, shrubs, trees, and ground

covers so they don’t touch the house.(Ants, especially carpenter ants,mosquitoes, rodents, and termites)

� Store wood away from your home,elevated above the ground, preferably ona metal rack. (Carpenter ants, rodents,and termites)

� Remove diseased plants, tree cuttings,fallen fruit, and leaves. (Carpenter ants,termites, flies, and rodents)

� Remove piles of rocks, lumber, or debris.(Rodents, spiders, and termites)

Remove breeding sites. Pests breedwhere there is water and food.� Scoop up pet droppings promptly. (Flies

and rodents)� Don’t leave pet food outside where pests

can feast. (Ants, cockroaches, flies,pigeons, and rodents)

� Look for and drain any standing water.(Mosquitoes and rodents)

� Direct drainpipes and other water sourcesaway from your house. (Carpenter antsand termites)

� Eliminate direct contact between woodand soil. Ideally, wood should be at least12" above soil level. (Carpenter ants,rodents, and termites)

� Use rot-resistant plastic lumber in land-scaping. (Carpenter ants and termites)

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PreventingPests

OutdoorsBar the door. Keep out crawling and flyingpests.� Install tight fitting screens and

weatherstripping on windows and doors.(Ants, cockroaches, mosquitoes, rodents,and spiders)

� Caulk cracks and crevices outside yourhome. (Ants, bees, cockroaches, termites,and yellowjackets)

� Install screens on air vent openings.(Pigeons, rodents, wasps, andyellowjackets)

� Seal or screen crawl-space openings.(Bees, rodents, and yellowjackets)

� Patch holes and cracks in the foundationand siding of your home. (Bees, rodents,spiders, and termites)

� Install screens on roof vent pipe openings.(Pigeons and rodents)

� Paint exterior regularly. (Termites)� Caulk holes in siding where wires,

cables, and plumbing enter the house.(Ants, bees, cockroaches, rodents,termites, and yellowjackets)

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PreventingPests

Many pests, especially rodents and pigeons,can carry diseases and cause illness.Special precautions should be taken todispose of pest remains and to clean-upfeces and urine quickly and properly.Clean Contaminated Areas� If inside, open windows.� Wear rubber or plastic gloves, eye protec-

tion, and dust mask. (A respirator shouldbe worn for pigeons and their droppings.Refer to page 27.)

� To avoid inhaling infectious contami-nants, do not vacuum or sweep. Spraythe pest remains with a disinfectant. (Amixture of 1 1/2 tablespoons of householdbleach in 1/2 gallon of water can be usedfor disinfectant.)

� Soak nests, droppings, or other itemsthat have been contaminated with adisinfectant. (Bleach can discolor items.)

� Scoop up pest remains and wastes andplace them in a plastic bag, then seal it. Put the sealed bag in another plastic bagand seal the bag. Dispose of the bags in acovered garbage can.

� Wipe surfaces with a disinfectant usinga clean sponge or rag. If rugs or uphol-stered furniture are contaminated, steamclean or shampoo.

� Wash any contaminated clothing orbedding with hot water and detergent.

Removing Gloves� Before taking your gloves off, wash them

with a disinfectant and then with soap andwater. Remove gloves and wash yourhands with soap and water.

� Place unwanted or disposable gloves,along with sponges or rags, in a sealedplastic bag and put in the garbage.

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PestDisposal

In situations where chemical pesticides areneeded, choose the least-toxic chemical forthe job. Be sure you have correctly identi-fied the problem to select the best treatment.Frequent applications of pesticides withoutlocating and properly identifying the pestfirst are a waste of your time and money,and can cause unnecessary environmentalcontamination. Read both front and backlabels when choosing a pesticide.Before You Buy:� Read the label. The label will list warn-

ings and safety precautions. Productscan be marked with the ratings – Danger,the most hazardous, Warning, andCaution, the least hazardous.

� Check the product label for the name ofthe pest.

� Choose the smallest quantity so you won’thave leftovers to dispose of or store.

Using Pesticides:� Follow all label directions exactly.� Use the pesticide only in the area where

the label states it is safe to do so. Forexample, in the kitchen, use productslabeled for use in food preparation areas.

� Always wear protective clothing: longsleeves, long pants, a hat, safety glasses orgoggles, and chemically resistant gloves. See label for additional clothing.

� Keep children and pets away.� Mix pesticides in well-ventilated areas.� Never apply pesticides in a breeze or wind.� Wash the clothing worn to apply pesti-

cides separately from your other clothing.

Remember to read the product label beforeyou buy or use.

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Importanceof Labels

Cleaning Spills& StoringProducts

Cleaning Spills� Clean pesticide spills immediately.

Sprinkle sawdust or cat litter, sweep intoa plastic garbage bag, close the bagtightly, double bag it, and label it. Washthe area clean. Take the bag to theHousehold Hazardous Waste CollectionFacility for disposal as soon as possible. (See page 14.)

� If you spill a product on yourself, wash itoff immediately with soap and water, or asthe product label instructs you.

Storing Pesticides� Keep product lids tightly closed.� Keep products in original containers so

you know what they are. If you do nothave the original container, label the newcontainer (with contents, date, andinstructions for use) and close it securely.

� Don’t store pesticides in soft drink bottlesor other containers that people mayassociate with something to eat or drink.

� Store all chemical products in a lockedcabinet in a cool, dry place, away fromhigh temperatures, and out of the reachof children.

� Neatness counts. Store any chemicals youmay have in a clean, orderly place. If youuse up your current supplies first, you’llsave time and money.

� Never store incompatible chemicalstogether. Oxidizers, such as nitratefertilizers and chlorine-containing poolchemicals, should not be stored withflammable products, such as oil-basedpesticides and paint thinners.

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Clean Empty Pesticide ContainersAn empty container can be as hazardous as a fullone because of toxic residues. To protect yourself,others, and the environment, follow these tips:� Rinse out the pesticide container but

DO NOT pour the rinse water down thedrain or down any outside storm drains.Instead, follow the steps described below.

• Fill the container with slow-running water –do not use a strong jet of water for rinsingbecause it may splash onto your face andeyes or clothing.

• Apply the rinse water as you would the pesti-cide - either directly from the container orby pouring the rinse water into a sprayer orother container that was used for the samepesticide. Follow the application directionslisted on the label.

• Follow the above steps until you have triple-rinsed the container, or until the rinse waterruns clear.

� Do not reuse empty pesticide containers.� Cut or puncture empty containers. Do not

puncture or burn a pressurized containerlike an aerosol – it could explode.

� Throw away dry containers that are less than5 gallons in capacity, and empty aerosol cansin the garbage. Remove caps or lids so thatthe garbage collectors know that they are empty.

Safe DisposalUnwanted pesticides should never be poureddown sinks, toilets, floor drains, or street drainsor thrown away in the garbage. Pesticides,when poured down drains, may pass throughthe wastewater treatment plant and end up inSan Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean, harm-ing fish and wildlife and contributing to thebuild up of toxins in fish caught for food.Throwing away pesticides in the garbage canharm garbage collectors, cause fires, and mayeventually contaminate the groundwater underthe landfill.

ProductDisposal

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FreeDisposal

San Francisco residents can safely disposeof pesticides and other hazardous productsat the Household Hazardous WasteCollection Facility. No fee is charged.Please bring proof of residency, such as adriver’s license or utility bill. In SanFrancisco, residents can transport a maxi-mum of 15 gallons or 125 pounds of haz-ardous waste per trip.

Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pmThursday, Friday, and Saturday only(415) 554-4333

San Francisco businesses are allowed touse the Facility for a fee and on anappointment-only basis. Please call (415)330-1425 for more information and to seeif you qualify for this program.

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How To UseThe Facility

Follow these important guidelines whenusing the Household Hazardous WasteCollection Facility:� Transport no more than 15 gallons or

125 pounds of hazardous waste in yourvehicle at one time. State law strictlyprohibits transportation of largeramounts without a special license.

� Do not mix products.� Keep all chemicals in their original

containers. If the original containeris not available, label the new containerwith its contents.

� Make sure lids are tightly sealed.� Prevent leakage. If an individual container

is leaking, place it inside a larger con-tainer or transfer the contents to a newcontainer and label it with the contents.

� Pack containers in cardboard boxes andplace in your trunk to make it easier tounload your vehicle and to preventcontainers from tipping over in yourvehicle. Do not put everything inplastic garbage bags.

� The Facility cannot accept the following: radioactive materials, explosives, reac-tives, and pressurized gas cylinders over20 pounds.

Empty containers less than 5 gallons incapacity, if completely dried, can be thrownaway in the garbage. Please do not bringempty containers to the Facility.

If you need more information about theHousehold Hazardous Waste Collection

Facility, call (415) 554-4333.

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Hiring aProfessional

Severe infestations of pests, such as cock-roaches, mice, pigeons, and rats can be diffi-cult to control on your own and may presentserious health risks. Consult a professionalpest control operator. There are many profes-sional pest control operators who can assistyou. Companies are listed in the Yellow Pagesor ask family, friends, or neighbors, or callthe San Francisco Water Pollution PreventionProgram at (415) 695-7375.Be InformedYour best strategy is to be informed and getinvolved before signing a contract. Considerthe following:� Interview several companies and ask for

references.� Make sure the company and the people

who will be working onsite are registeredand licensed. To double check, contactthe San Francisco Department ofConsumer Assurance at (415) 285-5010.

� Discuss pest control methods anddetermine if the company provides fullservice (including less-toxic pest control)methods/options.

� If treatments are to be used, find outwhat type of chemicals will be sprayedor applied and what risks they pose tofamily members, pets, and the environ-ment. You can also request productlabels and material safety data sheets.

� If treatments include physical modifica-tions to your home, determine who willperform the work.

� Discuss the actions the company willtake if pests recur.

� Establish your right to approve work andcosts, including return visits if necessary.

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For MoreInformationAbout...

Proper Use of Pesticides and PestIdentification:San Francisco Department ofConsumer Assurance(415) 285-5010

Cooperative Extensionof the University of California(650) 726-9059

University of California Internet Resourceshttp://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/selectnewpest.home.htmlhttp://www.CNR.berkeley.edu/lewis

Pesticide Safety:San Francisco Department of ConsumerAssurance(415) 285-5010

Poison Control Center1(800) 876-4766

National Pesticide TelecommunicationNetwork1(800) 858-7378

Public Health Nuisances:Department of Public Health(415) 252-3800

Less-Toxic Pest Control Techniques:San Francisco Public Utilities Commission"Grow It! The Less Toxic Garden"www.sfwater.org(415) 695-7375

San Francisco Departmentof the Environmentwww.sfenvironment.org(415) 355-3700

Bio-Integral Resource Center (BIRC)(510) 524-2567

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DetectionArgentine ants are common householdants. Look for single scouts or long linesof ants in or around the house, near food,or water. Distinguish Argentine ants fromcarpenter ants by size – Argentine ants aresmall (1/8") whereas carpenter ants are largeand dark (from 1/4" to 1/2" long).Less Toxic Controls� Use soapy water in a spray bottle to clean

counter tops and wipe up ant trails.� Follow trails to find entry points.

Temporarily close with petroleum jellyor duct tape. Use silicone caulk for apermanent seal.

� Use commercial baits containing boricacid, borax, or hydramethylnon (followall label instructions). Do not sprayrepellants near baits because ants willbe repelled.- Try different kinds of bait. Argentineants change their food preferencesfrequently. If one bait is not working,try another.- To avoid attracting new ants, do notleave bait out after ant trails havedisappeared.

Prevention� Good sanitation is very important.

(See pages 6-9)� Destroy scouts whenever you see them.� Empty garbage often and keep sweet,

protein-rich, or greasy items in therefrigerator.

� Don’t leave pet food out all day or night. If this is not practical, place pet dishes ina low baking pan filled with soapy water.

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ARGENTINE ANTS

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DetectionCarpenter worker ants are larger than mostother types, ranging from 1/4" to 1/2" long.Carpenter ants excavate nests in wood (usu-ally moist wood) but do not feed on the wooditself. Small piles of sawdust are often visiblenear their nests. They forage inside homesfor water and human or pet food and aremost active at night between 11pm and 2am.Less Toxic Controls� Nests are difficult to find. It’s better to

hire a licensed pest control operator tofind and destroy the nest. Less-toxiccontrols a professional may use include: treating wall voids with baits, diatoma-ceous earth, silica aerogel, boric acid,or borate (these also work for prevention)and/or vacuuming ants from the nest.

� If considering using baits or other insecti-cides, be sure to use one that is labeledfor use where you plan to apply it (inwall voids, or outside, etc.).

� After a professional has completed thework, be sure the damaged wood isreplaced with borate-treated wood.

Prevention� Control moisture by repairing all water

leaks inside and out. Make sure thehouse is adequately ventilated.

� Store firewood on a metal rack awayfrom the house.

� Keep vegetation and tree branchespruned away from the building.

� Have a professional treat vulnerablewood with borate.

� For more suggestions, see pages 6-9.

CARPENTER ANTS

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DetectionThese small moths (1/2-5/8" wingspan) avoidlight and try to hide when disturbed. Tiny,white, worm-like larvae feed on hair, feath-ers, wool, fur, dead insects, and dried animalremains. Moths are attracted to lay theireggs on fabrics with stains from food, humanperspiration, and urine.Less Toxic Controls� Shake, brush, and air out infested

materials.� Thoroughly clean infested fabrics: dry-

clean, submerge in hot (120° F) soapywater for 2 to 4 hours, microwave for 4minutes on high (do not microwave anymetal, e.g. buttons, zippers, etc.) or freezein sealed plastic bags for 3 days at 0° F.

� Thoroughly vacuum infested areas.� For widespread infestations, consider

hiring a licensed pest control operatorto apply heat treatments.

Prevention� Regularly shake, brush, and air fabrics,

rugs, and furniture. This is especiallyimportant for anything in storage.

� Store woolens and other materials onlyafter they have been thoroughly cleaned. Store in tightly sealed containers orplastic bags.

� Animal, bird, and insect nests can harbormoths. Remove them from the house.

� Regularly vacuum cracks, crevices,closets, shelves, upholstery, and rugs.

� Caulk cracks where lint might accumu-late. (Moths are attracted to lint.)

� Keep windows screened.� Throw away badly infested materials in

sealed plastic bags to preventre-infestations.

C L O T H E S M O T H S

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DetectionCockroaches are flat-bodied, oval-shapedinsects with long antennae. They are tanthrough dark brown or black in color.Cockroaches are most active at night.Cockroaches may harbor diseases that canharm humans and animals.Less Toxic Controls� For infestations, locate hiding places by

using sticky traps.� Use commercial baits or baited traps

containing abamectin, boric acid, fipronil,or hydramethylnon (follow all labelinstructions). Do not place them in theopen, but along edges (where thecounter meets the wall, the wall meetsthe floor, etc.).

� Vacuum cracks or crevices and aroundmotors of appliances to remove roaches,egg capsules, and food particles.

� Apply a light dusting of boric acidpowder (roaches will avoid clumps)under refrigerators and stoves, and incracks and crevices. When using boricacid, be sure to read the entire labelcarefully and follow all directions.

� For severe infestations, hire a licensedpest control operator.

� DO NOT use sprays as a control method.

Prevention� Good sanitation is extremely important.

(See pages 6-9.)� Seal cracks, crevices, and openings –

especially around pipes.� In heavy infestations, remove all garbage

from the house each evening.� Remove pet food at night.

C O C K R O A C H E S

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DetectionAdult fleas are most often found on pets.Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae are found incracks and crevices, rugs, upholstered furni-ture, and anywhere animals rest or sleep.Flea season commonly occurs in summerand fall.Less Toxic Controls� For your pet, use pills containing

lufenuron or products containingfipronil or imidacloprid that are appliedto the skin in one small spot. Ask yourvet or pet store. These products areeffective and have a low acute toxicityfor mammals. Use these products onlyduring flea season to prevent fleas frombecoming resistant to the chemicals.

� Comb pets with a flea comb. Dispose offleas in soapy water.

� Vacuum carpets, furniture, and floorsfrequently to pick up eggs and pupae(larvae coil themselves around carpetfibers and are difficult to remove).

� Wash or vacuum pet bedding frequentlyto remove immature fleas.

� Use commercial flea traps made of alight bulb and sticky paper.

� Spot-treat problem areas with an insectgrowth regulator such as methopreneto arrest flea development.

� If necessary, hire a licensed pest controloperator to treat your carpet.

Prevention� Restrict pets to specified areas and

vacuum those areas frequently.� Flea comb pets throughout the year.� For more suggestions, see pages 6 and 7.

F L E A S

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DetectionSome nuisance flies are dull gray or black;others have shiny blue or green abdo-mens. All adult flies have only 1 pair ofwings (other insects have 2 pairs).Nuisance fly maggots can be found inhousehold garbage, (fruit, vegetable, meat,and fish scraps), animal manure (includingdog and cat droppings), animal carcasses,and poisoned garden snails.Less Toxic Controls� Find and remove material in which flies

are breeding (see above).� Hang sticky flypaper from the ceiling;

replace when covered with flies or whendried out.

� Use a fly swatter.� Vacuum up slower moving flies.� Use commercial flytraps. Bait with

decaying meat, fish, or eggs.Prevention� Good sanitation is very important.

(See pages 6-9.)� Promptly remove animal droppings.

Seal in a plastic bag before disposal.� Install screens on windows and doors.� Keep garbage cans and dumpsters tightly

covered and clean. Odors can attractflies from a great distance.

F L I E S

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DetectionLook for silken webbing, cast-off skins, ortiny, worm-like larvae in foods, such as grainand grain products, pet food, nuts, seeds,dried fruits, beans, spices, and herbs. Smallcocoons can sometimes be found in cornersor crevices of packaging or food storageareas. The grayish moths (3/4" wingspan)are active after dark.Less Toxic Controls� Use sticky pheromone (sex lure) traps to

detect and help control adult moths.� Dispose of infected food products in

sealed plastic bags.� Vacuum and clean storage areas.� If you suspect contamination, but find no

evidence, freeze grain products for 2 to 3days. Dried fruit can be submerged inboiling water for 5 seconds.

Prevention� Do not buy products in broken or

damaged packaging.� Inspect newly-opened food packages for

webbing or cocoons. Return infestedpackages to the store.

� Place newly purchased bulk items in thefreezer for 2 to 3 days before storing inrefrigerator or cupboards.

� Store all food (including pet food andbirdseed) in tightly sealed containers.

� Keep bulk foods in the refrigerator.Buy only as much as you can use in 1 or2 months and wash containers beforerefilling.

� Keep storage areas dry and free fromspilled flour, grain, and other food.

� For more suggestions, see pages 6 and 7.

G R A I N M O T H S

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DetectionMice can be detected by droppings, gnawmarks, tracks, and spilled or stashed food.Listen for noises at night. Mice eat justabout anything and they can contaminatefood with their droppings and urine. Nestsare made of shredded paper, plastic, fabric,etc., usually 5" in diameter and are found insecluded locations, such as stored boxes andfalse ceilings.Less Toxic Controls� Trapping is the most effective control for

minor infestations. Use live or snap traps,and plenty of them.

� Bait with raisins, gumdrops, peanutbutter, or oatmeal.

� Place traps:- Along walls or other runways, neardroppings and gnaw marks, and indark corners.- At right angles to wall with triggernear wall.- Side by side to prevent rodents fromjumping over them.- By wiring to pipes or nailing to rafters.

� Be persistent. Keep bait fresh, inspecttraps frequently, and try new locations.

� To dispose of mice and their droppings,see page 10.

� For severe infestations, hire a licensedpest control operator.

Prevention� Sanitation and prevention are important.

(See pages 6 and 7.)� Repair any hole, inside and out, from the

size of your little finger and larger.� Fix gaps around doors, windows,

and pipes.

M I C E

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DetectionAdult mosquitoes are small, delicate, long-legged insects with only 1 pair of wings.Only females bite with their long piercingmouth part. Immature stages includingeggs, larvae, and pupae are found in still orvery slow-moving water. Mosquitoes cantransmit diseases to humans and animals.Less Toxic Controls� Find and drain standing water. Sources

include: buckets, barrels, cans, tires,gutters, clogged roof gutters, tree holes,etc. Pour water on the ground.

� Electric bug zappers are not effective formosquito control and kill large numbersof beneficial insects.

Prevention� Eliminate standing water. This is the

single most important tactic forpreventing mosquitoes.

� Clean birdbaths with a wire brush andchange water at least once a week.

� Keep swimming pools and hot tubschlorinated and covered when not used.

� Hire a tree care professional to fix treeholes that accumulate water or drainyourself and fill with sand.

� Store tires inside garages or sheds ordispose of them properly. Tires arehard to empty of water and can containmillions of mosquitoes.

� Keep basements dry.� Install screens on windows and doors.

M O S Q U I T O E S

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DetectionPigeons are variously colored birds (gray,white, tan or blackish) and are common inurban settings. They prefer grain and seedsbut also eat food waste and insects. Pigeons,their nests, and their droppings may harbordiseases and parasites that can harmhumans. In San Francisco, it is illegal tokill a pigeon, but you can deter them fromnesting.Less Toxic Controls� Hire a licensed pest control operator.� Wear protective clothing, including a

respirator with a HEPA filter, and destroynests at 2-week intervals. This must becombined with exclusion methods suchas those listed on the following page.(Using the wrong respirator, or wearingone improperly, can be more dangerousthan not using one at all. Companies thatcan help you select the right respirator,ensure proper fitting, and train you onproper use are listed under the SafetyEquipment section in the Yellow Pages.)

� To dispose of droppings and nests, see page 10.

P I G E O N S

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P I G E O N S

Prevention� Keep areas around garbage cans and

dumpsters clean.� Do not feed pigeons.� Eliminate old nests and nesting sites

because pigeons are attracted by thesmell of other pigeons.- Wear protective clothing, including arespirator, to scrape droppings, removefeathers, debris, and dead birds. Fordisposal and clean-up, see page 10.- Thoroughly clean all active pigeonareas with detergent and a high-pressurestream of hot water.

� Use bird netting to exclude birds fromrafters, eaves, overhangs, and any indoornesting sites.

� On narrow beams and ledges create anunstable platform by:-Using tightly stretched fishing line orpiano wire 1" or 2" above the surface.-Attaching nylon-coated stainless steelwire to stainless steel posts mounted onthe ledge at alternating heights.- Placing stainless steel coiled wire onledges.

� Retrofit ledges with wood, concrete, orplaster to create a smooth surface at a45° angle (birds will slip off).

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R A T S

DetectionRats can be detected by droppings, gnawmarks, tracks, and spilled or stashed food.Listen for noises at night. Nest size is largerthan mice, usually 8"-12" in diameter. Ratscan spread diseases to humans and animalsand their urine and droppings can contami-nate food.

Two types of rats are commonly found in SanFrancisco: Norway rats and Roof rats.

Norway rats eat meat, grains, pet food,garbage, etc. They are found on lower floorsof buildings and in wall voids, crawl spaces,or any cluttered area that is seldom used.Outside, they are found in ground burrows,unused sewers, or street drains.

Roof rats prefer fresh plant material, such asfruits, vegetables, and tree bark. They arefound in attics, but will nest on lower floors.Outside, they are found above ground indense, overgrown vegetation, but also inwood and debris piles, unused sewers, andstreet drains.

Less Toxic Controls� Use traps for minor infestations.

(See page 25.)� Pre-bait traps, but do not set. Check

daily. When bait is taken, add freshbait, then set.

� For Norway rats, bait with liver, hot dog,peanut butter, oatmeal, or nuts.

� For Roof rats, bait with nuts, dried fruit,bananas, or apples.

� To dispose of rats, see page 10.� For severe infestations, hire a licensed

pest control operator.

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R A T S

Prevention� Eliminate clutter inside and outdoors.� Repair broken sewer pipes.� Remove overgrown vegetation. Ivy is a

favorite hiding place for rats.� Break up existing dense plantings with

exposed paths, stretches of lawn, or lowground covers.

� For additional prevention strategies, seeMice on page 25.

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S P I D E R S

DetectionSpiders are not insects; they are classifiedas arachnids and have 8 legs (insects haveonly 6). Many spiders, but not all, makewebs. Spiders may frighten people but theyare truly beneficial because they help us byconsuming many pest insects in the homeand garden. The vast majority of spiderscannot pierce human skin with their mouth-parts and should not be routinely destroyed.Less Toxic Controls� To remove a spider from your home

without killing it, cover it with a glassand gently slide an index card under theglass, then release the spider outside.

� Vacuum spiders and their webs or use abroom to remove webs.

� If possible, eliminate the spiders’ foodsupply. If they are feeding on fruit flies,store ripening fruit in paper bags foldedover twice and sealed with a large clip. Ifspiders are building webs around a porchlight, use a yellow bulb to reduce thenumber of insects attracted to the light.

� Teach children and adults to respectspiders. Do not let them tease spiders orpoke their fingers into dark crevices,especially in the basement or woodpiles.

Prevention� Vacuum or sweep regularly.� Install tight fitting screens on windows.� Reduce clutter.� Move firewood and debris away from

the foundation.� Shrubs, vines, and tree limbs should be

clipped back from the sides of buildings.

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T E R M I T E S

DetectionTermites can be distinguished from ants bytheir broad waists and relatively straightantennae. Their wings, if present, are equalin size and have many veins. Ants have nar-row waists, elbowed antennae, wings withfew veins, and hind wings that are smallerthan their forewings. Unlike carpenter ants,termites actually digest the wood they feedon. Termites may leave small fecal pelletsbelow infested wood or make mud-like tubeson walls.Less Toxic Controls� Treatments are best performed by a

licensed pest control operator.Prevention� Eliminate water sources that can cause

wood decay such as soil contact, waterleaks, clogged or damaged roof drains, etc.(See pages 8 and 9)

� Remove tree stumps, buried wood, andall debris (including paper and boxes)from under and around the building.(See pages 8 and 9)

� Hire a licensed pest control operator to:- Inspect building regularly.- Treat vulnerable wood with borate orreplace damaged wood with borate-treated wood.- Use diatomaceous earth, silica aerogel,or silica aerogel combined with pyrethrinin wall voids, crawl spaces, or attics.- Install sand barriers (sand particle size,shape, and installation are critical tothis method).

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WASPS & YELLOWJACKETS

DetectionYellowjackets search aggressively for sweet and pro-tein-rich foods around picnics and garbage in latesummer and early fall. They can inflict multiplestings. Papery nests are large globe-like structureswith an entrance hole at the bottom. Nests aremainly found underground, but can be found inwall voids and hanging from eaves or branches.

Paper wasps, like bees, are not aggressive unlessdisturbed and usually need no control. Paper waspsresemble yellowjackets but have longer legs.Papery nests are open and look like small umbrellashanging from eaves, etc. Wasps and yellowjacketshelp us by feeding on garden pests.

Less Toxic Controls (Yellowjackets)� Use commercial traps. Bait house-

shaped traps with liverwurst. Bait conetype traps with sweet liquids. Beforeemptying the collection part of the trap,seal traps in plastic bags and freeze overnightor set in the sun for several hours.

� Make your own water trap in the early springto trap yellowjacket queens and reduce localizednesting. Use a pan or bucket with a largeopening, fill it with soapy water, and suspend apiece of meat about 1" over the surface of thewater. Yellowjackets will drown in the water,which should be periodically discarded andrefilled. Replace the bait when it begins to rot. These traps should be set away from patio andpicnic areas.

� Hire a licensed pest control operator to treatnests that directly threaten humans. Theyshould use a very small amount of a pyrethrininsecticide, remove nests from walls or eaves,and seal access to holes in walls.

Prevention� Keep garbage cans sealed.� Remove fallen fruit.� Install screens on windows and doors.� Never swat at a wasp. Move slowly to gently

brush it away.

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The San Francisco Water PollutionPrevention Program would like tothank Cal/EPA Department of PesticideRegulation; Philip Dickey of the WashingtonToxics Coalition; Jerry Motak of StandardTermite and Pest Control; the members ofthe Pest Control Operators of California, SanFrancisco/San Mateo District; the SanFrancisco Department of ConsumerAssurance, Department of the Environment,and Department of Public Health for theirinformation and generous assistance.

The City and County of San FranciscoPublic Utilities Commission, Bureau ofEnvironmental Regulation and Manage-ment, Water Pollution Prevention Programhas developed this guide to provide tips oncontrolling some common pests to reducethe amount of toxic pollutants dischargedto the City’s combined sewer system. Foradditional assistance, refer to the Resourcessection listed on page 17. Any mention ofindividual products, vendors, or technologiesdoes not constitute an endorsement by theCity and County of San Francisco.

Editor: Paula KehoeTechnical Consultant: Tanya DrlikCreative: Maureen O’RorkeDesigner: Larry GreenIllustrator: Jenny Speckels

Thanks

Copyright© City and County of San Francisco 1998, 2003

Printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks.