What do they look like?
Silverfish and firebrats are wingless insects with flat and elongated bodies that taper off at the back end into three long thin appendages, or cerci. Some have eyes, whereas some species do not. Silverfish are identified by their silver coloured metallic scales. In contrast, the firebrats’ distinct feature is the scattering of brown scales over the body creating a patterned appearance. Mature silverfish and firebrats grow to approximately half an inch long.
Where do they come from?
Silverfish and firebrats are attracted to an accessible food source, as well as moist and dark places in which to hide. As a result, residences or commercial buildings are ideal habitats for these insects. Their small size allows them to slip through cracks and crevices of a building’s perimeter, or unknowingly carried inside on people or objects. Once inside, they travel across or through ceilings, walls, baseboards, floors, and other gaps in a building’s structure. They tend to stay concealed until an area is infested.
Will they cause any damage to my home or business?
Silverfish and firebrats cause damage by consuming a variety of items inside a residence. These insects create small holes in the material they feed on and leave yellow stains on fabrics. They are opportunistic feeders that come out at night to scavenge for nearby food. Their diet consists of sugary or starchy food, other insects, and household material (e.g. paper-based products, adhesive material, fabrics), all of which are easily accessibly in an occupied residence or commercial building (e.g. offices, restaurants). Without silverfish extermination, populations will grow into an infestation and damages from their feeding activity will become more noticeable.
Will they cause me or my family to become sick?
Silverfish and firebrats are not known to transmit diseases to humans and are considered a low health risk.
Where will I generally find them in my home or business?
Silverfish and firebrats are found in moist, dark environments of a residence. However, silverfish prefer cooler, moist environments, whereas firebrats tend towards warmer, humid surroundings. These insects are commonly found in storage areas, such as closets, cabinets and bookshelves. Warmer areas harboring firebrats include bathrooms, attics, and places near furnaces, hot water pipes and insulation. Silverfish and firebrats tend to keep away from humans and are generally found hiding in locations away from regular human activities and disturbances.
Why do I have to get rid of them?
Silverfish and firebrat feeding activities damage household objects and furnishings. A large insect population will lead to larger, more noticeable damage that may be costly to fix or replace.
How can 1st Pest Control help?
At 1st Pest Control we specialize in pest and wildlife remediation, such as silverfish control. Silverfish and firebrats are prevalent throughout single family homes, multi-family buildings and commercial properties in the Lower Mainland. With industry-leading techniques and pest control methods, you can feel secure that your home or business is being treated to the highest industry and safety standards by our Certified Pest Control Technicians. By combining both environmentally-friendly pest control services and an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, we will create a specialized treatment program tailored to your specific location and infestation. Our mission is to eradicate pests in your home or business to give you peace of mind and to ensure the safety of you and those you care about.
When can we get started?
Today! Call 1st Pest Control and our Certified Pest Control Technicians and friendly office staff will begin creating a customized treatment program to get your pest problem under control. 1-844-PEST-CANADA (737-8226).
At 1st Pest Control, we aim to help you reclaim your space from pests and wildlife.