What should be done if ticks infest a house? - briefly
Remove ticks by thoroughly vacuuming carpets, furniture, and crevices, then wash all bedding and clothing in hot water and apply an appropriate acaricide to treat the interior surfaces. Inspect and treat pets with veterinarian‑approved tick control and seal potential entry points to prevent recurrence.
What should be done if ticks infest a house? - in detail
Ticks discovered in a dwelling require immediate, systematic action to protect occupants and pets.
First, confirm the infestation by inspecting bedding, rugs, pet areas, and cracks in walls or floors. Use a bright flashlight and a fine-toothed comb to locate the arthropods.
Next, isolate the affected zones. Remove all removable items—blankets, pillowcases, curtains, and clothing—and place them in sealed plastic bags.
Proceed with thorough cleaning:
- Vacuum every carpet, upholstery, and crevice; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wash fabric items in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Mop hard surfaces with a detergent solution, then apply an acaricide approved for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Treat pets promptly. Apply a veterinarian‑recommended tick collar or topical treatment, and conduct a full physical check to remove any attached parasites.
If the infestation persists after the above measures, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Request an integrated approach that may include:
- Targeted application of residual acaricides in wall voids and baseboards.
- Fogging or misting of hard‑to‑reach areas.
- Monitoring devices to assess ongoing activity.
Finally, implement preventive practices to deter future invasions:
- Maintain a clutter‑free environment; eliminate potential harborages such as piles of firewood or leaf litter near the foundation.
- Seal cracks and gaps in exterior walls, windows, and doors.
- Keep lawns trimmed and grass short, reducing tick habitat.
- Regularly inspect pets and household members after outdoor exposure.
By executing these steps promptly and methodically, the risk of disease transmission and recurring tick problems can be minimized.