Bed Bug Treatment Gone Wrong

It appears nightly news is now regularly including stories on bed bugs. Right here in New York, just south of our main office in New York City bed bugs are spreading like crazy. From hotels, movie theaters, stores, hospitals and now schools, it is scary to think where they may show up next.

Our local ABC news aired a story about bed bugs in a NYC School. A exterminator was hired to service a school for bed bugs, however he did much more. Upon returning to the school, teachers found fluid from the exterminator's product on their desks, children's desks, the floors, on books, etc. When reading this, the most important thing to do before hiring a pest professional or anyone, is to check their credentials.

The National Pest Management Association Lists Tips for Finding A Pro:

1. Always deal with a qualified and licensed pest management company. Consider asking to see the license or other credentials of the pest control professional that comes to solve your pest problem.

2.Evaluate pest control companies that are members of national, state or local pest management associations.

3.Consider an NPMA QualityPro company.
4.Ask friends and neighbors to recommend pest control companies they have used successfully and how satisfied they were with the service.
5.Be wary of the exterminator who comes to your home uninvited and offers to give your house a free inspection for pests. He or she may try to scare you into authorizing immediate and costly treatments.
6.If a sizable amount of money is involved, get bids from several pest management companies.
7.Don't rush a decision. Since you are paying for professional knowledge as well as skillful application of pesticides, look for someone whose judgment you can trust.
8. Before signing a contract, be sure to fully understand the nature of the household pest to be exterminated, the extent of the infestation, and the work necessary to solve the problem.
9.Find out if the pest control company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house or furnishings during treatment.
10.If a guarantee is given, know what it covers, how long it lasts, what you must do to keep it in force, and what kind of continuing control, prevention and management are necessary.
11.Buy value, not price. Beware of exterminators that offer bargains that sound too good to be true.
12.Homeowners can call state pest control regulatory agencies for information regarding the status of pest management companies. In most states the regulatory agency is the State Department of Agriculture.

Although those tips apply to general pest control, what about bed bugs? How to you choose a professional, BEdBugCentral provides these helpful tips:

Not all pest control companies are created equal and are equipped and knowledgeable enough to treat bed bug infestations. Listed below you will find questions we recommend you ask before contracting a pest control company to treat your bed bug infestation.

Questions to Ask

Is the company licensed and insured?

Although this question may seem basic, it is a very important question many people may forget to ask. Pest control operators (PCO) may need to work with pesticides and chemicals, which are only effective when used properly by a licensed PCO who has been trained to do so.

What experience does the company have treating bed bug infestations at structures or sites similar to your own?

Be sure to confirm that the pest control company has not only treated bed bug infestations before, but ones at structures similar to your own. As you learn more about bed bugs, you will realize that the way an infestation is treated varies by site and structure (ie. apartments, rowhomes, etc.).

Get references.

Make sure to not only ask if they have treated infestations at structures similar to your own, but to ask for references of the previous work they have done. Make sure to follow up with these references before taking further action with the pest control company.

What is the plan of action to handle infestations?

Do not hire a bed bug company unless they can provide you with some type of bed bug protocol for your type of structure beforehand and/or after the inspection.

Does the company endorse or require the use of encasements?

We believe that the most effective bed bug eradication plans require the use of encasements on all mattresses and box springs. For more then one reason, we believe this to greatly aid in managing and treating a bed bug infestation.
Is the pricing a flat fee does it vary by job?

We think that every bed bug infestation is unique and should be treated that way. We may be wary of a flat fee pricing system because depending on the level of your infestation, the pricing may or may not be fair.

Other things to keep in mind

IPM

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an approach to pest management that involves using both chemical and non-chemical measures to manage pest infestations. This approach is used to manage and reduce the amount of pesticide damage done to the environment.

Vacuum and Steam.

The use of vacuum and steam has proven to be a very effective and useful tool in bed bug management program. This is usually part of an IPM protocol, and is an effective alternative to pesticides.

Educational Materials

A knowledgeable pest control company will provide you with educational materials educating you on the behavior and biology of bed bugs, and what you can do to aid in the eradication process. They should also provide you with directions, written or spoken, or what to do during treatments.

For more specific information on how to choose a pest control company, you can email BedBugCentral at questions@bedbugcentral.com or contact Craig Thomas Pest Control at info@callcraig.com.

We at Craig Thomas Pest Control are proud to be members of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). NPMA an organization including many pest management companies, whose many goal its to protect the health, home and/or property from pest. Craig Thomas is even on the board of directors! As division of NPMA includes QualtiyPro. Craig Thomas Pest Control is proud to be one of the 303 companies (as of February 2010) to be QualityPro. QualityPro increases the professionalism of the pest management industry, by instituting background and reference checks on all new employees, drug testing, clear contracts and warranties among a host of other items. On top of all of these qualifications, we are BedBugFree Certified. This certification shows the commitment Craig Thomas Pest Control has in controlling bedbugs.

We are a licensed and trained in bedbug control and would like the opportunity to protect your health, home and property in the near future. For questions, contact us by phone 800-255-6777, email, twitter or facebook.

Picture Source

The True Ghouls of Halloween

Bedbugs, Spiders, Bats and Other Pests

Give Homeowners Nightmares During the Halloween Season

This Halloween, vampires, ghosts and goblins will not be the only ghoulish creatures haunting the night; bedbugs continue to make a startling resurgence in U.S. residences, spider infestations are up, and wildlife pests such as bats plague homeowners across the country. 



According to the Sarah Thomas, Marketing Specialist at Craig Thomas Pest Control. “Scary  movies aren’t the only thing giving homeowners nightmares this season. As temperatures begin to plunge, pests everywhere begin to seek respite in the very areas you want them the least – your home.”

Pests such as bedbugs are actually very similar to one of our favorite Halloween characters – the vampire.  A nocturnal creature, bedbugs are bloodsucking pests.  As they bite human skin, they inject an anesthetic-like liquid that numbs the skin and allows them to bite undisturbed.  In fact, humans don’t usually wake up when they are being bitten; however, they do find themselves scratching circular, red, itchy welts in the morning.

“Luckily, a bedbug bite doesn’t transform you into a bedbug; the way a vampire bite makes you a vampire,” says Thomas.  “In fact, the only good news about bedbugs is that their bites do not transmit disease to humans.”

Other ghoulish pests cannot make the same claim.  Bats are the culprits behind 72% of rabies cases in the U.S. between 1990 and 2002; and various species of spiders found in the United States pose serious health threats and require vigilant control procedures.

“Homeowners have an easy way of waking up from this type of house nightmare,” commented National Pest Management Association Vice President of Public Affairs Missy Henriksen. “Pest professionals have the training and expertise to assist homeowners through this type of home horror.”

Craig Thomas Pest Control is licensed and trained in insect and rodent control and would like the opportunity to protect your health, home and property in the near future. For questions, contact us by phone 800-255-6777, email, twitter or facebook. For more information on pest control, visit http://www.pestworld.org/ and http://www.callcraig.com/.

Picture Source: overstocktober.

Stink Bugs

The newest invasion sweeping the Eastern U.S., now includes stink bugs! However, bed bugs are still the prominent insect invading the U.S. currently. According to a CBS Article, stink bugs are worse than ever invading homes, businesses and destroying crops.

To learn more about stink bugs, this informational sheet is great!

Although stink bugs are not a prevalent in the Hudson Valley, Craig Thomas Pest Control has received and responded to calls regarding these insects. We are licensed and trained in insect and rodent control and would like the opportunity to protect your health, home and property in the near future. For questions, contact us by phone 800-255-6777, email, twitter or facebook. For more information on pest control, visit www.pestworld.org and www.callcraig.com.



STUFF THE BUS

We need your help!

Craig Thomas Pest Control is very excited to join Star 93.3fm in their annual campaign to

Stuff the Bus

 against hunger. All proceeds are donated to The Regional Food Bank of the Hudson Valley.

If you are a customer...You can provide your technician with a nonperishable item at your time of service. Your technician with collect the donation.

If you are not a customer...You can still help. Come drop off a donation November 18th - November 20th at Stop & Shop on Route 9, Poughkeepsie;

 November 20th at Stop & Shop in New Paltz and Burnette Blvd in Poughkeepsie.

Help families put food on the tables as the holidays approach.

SECOND HOMEOWNERS MAY FIND UNINVITED PEST GUESTS

What is lurking in your home away from home?

Second homeowners may find their vacation properties have become home to such crib crashing critters as raccoons, squirrels, mice, birds, termites, spiders, ants and even bears in their several season hiatus. With the purchase of vacation homes on the rise, more and more second homeowners are starting their vacations with a common creepy crawly problem— ridding their getaway of unwanted pest guests.

As more people purchase vacation homes in natural settings and leave them vacant during the colder months, it is only natural to discover that Mother Nature has moved in while they were out. “People are upset when they open up their cabin or beach house for the season to find ants in the kitchen, spiders in the bathroom, and small wildlife in the chimney or crawlspace,” said Missy Henriksen, Vice President of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). “If you don’t properly pest-proof your home, nature will find its way in through cracks, crevices, holes, vents and chimneys and can create a really dangerous situation.”

Insects can sting and bite, cause minor skin irritations and extreme allergic reactions in some cases, while termites can cause thousands of dollars in property damage. Animals that seem cute and harmless in their natural environment can attack and become defensive if they are trapped or have set up camp indoors.


“Pest management is important for all homes especially second homes, since they are left vacant for long periods of time,” said, Sarah Thomas, Marketing Specialist at Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc. "As a homeowner the last thing you want to be doing is dealing with insects or rodents. Instead you should be enjoying your property," said Thomas.  “If possible, second homeowners should try to open their home for the season prior to the whole family coming for vacation, but either way, they should at least go prepared with the phone number of a local pest professional to safely remove their pest and wildlife problem.”

We are licensed and trained in insect and rodent control and would like the opportunity to protect your health, home and property in the near future. For questions, contact us by phone 800-255-6777, email, twitter or facebook. For more information on pest control, visit http://www.pestworld.org/ and http://www.callcraig.com/.

We at Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc. are grateful to: the National Pest Management Association for the pest information and/or photo images incorporated into this work.

Bed Bugs: What Parents & Students Need to Know

Bed Bugs: What Parents & Students Need to Know

What are bed bugs?

Bed bugs are brown to reddish-brown, flat, oval insects, which feed on the blood of people while sleeping. When the bite occurs it is painless, which occur in a straight line. The area may develop into a large, itchy welt similar to a mosquito bite. Bed bugs do not transmit disease, but can cause anxiety and sleeplessness.

Bed bugs are known as hitchhikers, transferred from one infested environment to another. They travel from one place to another on clothing, bedding, luggage, furniture, backpacks, books and more.

Why bed bugs are on the rise!
Factors contributing to the resurgence of bed bugs:

• Unregulated sale, donation, importation and smuggling of second hand clothing, mattress and furniture.
• More clutter and belonging in which the bugs can hide such as, conducive building, decorating practices and turnover of occupants. 
• Denial/lack of reporting by tenants, workers, landlords, hotels, businesses, universities, etc.
• Economic expansion enabling people to travel.
• Global health officials focusing their efforts on disease vectors rather than bed bugs.
• Changing lifestyle, greater reliance on communal laundries rather than washing items at home.

Avoid getting bed bugs.
To prevent bed bugs from getting into a room, do not bring any used or discarded items into the room. If you think you were somewhere with a bedbug problem, inspect your items. Pay attention to seams, folds, zippers and any other location.

Backpacks, lunchboxes, and other items that travel to and from school should be inspected daily and sealed in plastic containers or plastic bags to prevent bedbugs from getting into them at home. During inspection look for physical bedbugs, black stains created by fecal droppings and eggs which are pearly white and 1mm in length.

Suspect bed bugs.

• Do you wake up with unexplained bug bites on your body?
• Do you see any live bed bugs? 
• Do you see dark brownish black staining on your linens or mattress?

Notify housing immediately if you suspect bed bugs. If you suspect bed bugs at home, call a licensed, trained, BedBugFree professional.

What not to do.

• Do not throw items away or remove them for your room.
• If items are moved correctly, it will prevent the spread in the hallways, other room and areas. You certainly do not want another student picking up the contaminated items and spreading the problem to a greater level.
• Do not attempt to control the bed bugs on your own.
• Contact housing immediately to allow a professional pest management provider who is trained in this area.
• Do not relocate to another room.
• Initially the first thought is to get out of the room. However, in doing so you carry the risk on carrying bed bugs on yourself and your belongings into another room. 

What you should do.

• Notify housing immediately. If home, call a licensed, trained, BedBugFree professional.
• Bed bugs can spread at a rapid rate, do not be embarrassed and notify someone immediately.
• Clean up clothes and general clutter in the room.
• Clutter provides an ideal place for bed bugs to hide and also makes bed bug service difficult.
• Bag laundry and launder in hot water.
• Laundering your clothing will reduce the spread of bed bugs. Place linens and other items in plastic bags and have laundered in hot water. Bed bugs exposure to heat will kill any insects and their eggs. Place in hot dry cycle as well. Throw bags into dumpster and place clean items in clean garbage bags.

I’m going home, what can I do.
Transporting bed bugs is definitely something to be concerned about. Limit what you bring home; bringing home items that can be placed in plastic bags. When you arrive home place items in hot dryer to kill any insects and/or eggs. Leave suitcase in garage and do not bring into home. Do inspect around zipper, folds, etc. before and after your travels.

Again most importantly, if you suspect bed bugs, do not be embarrassed take action NOW, before the problem it out of hand.

We are a licensed and trained in bedbug control and would like the opporunity to protect your health, home and property in the near future. For questions, contact us by phone 800-255-6777, email, twitter or  facebook.



We at Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc. are grateful to: the National Pest Management Association, University of Florida,  BedBug Central, Bugs without Borders and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for pest information and/or photo images incorporated into this work. 

BedBugs Resurgence

CRAIG THOMAS PEST CONTROL REPORTS RESURGANCE IN BEDBUG INFESTATIONS

Bedbugs Infesting Residential and Multifamily Homes, Apartment Complexes, Residence Halls, Hospitals and Hotels

September 10, 2010 (Hyde Park, NY) – According to the National Pest Management Association, pest control companies are reporting a significant increase in the number of calls regarding bedbug infestations. Renowned hitchhikers, bedbugs catch rides in luggage, shoes, pant hems and any other mobile material. Although there is no way to determine the actual cause of the resurgence, experts are attributing the increase to several things, which include global travel and the mobility of the pest.

These infestations can be difficult to detect due to the elusive, nocturnal and transient nature of the pest. Although their name suggests otherwise, bedbugs can be found in carpets, peeling wallpaper, light fixtures, and any crack small enough for a thin insect to hide. According to Craig Thomas, President for Craig Thomas Pest Control, bedbug infestations are not a sign of unsanitary or unclean living areas.

Adult bedbugs are about the size and shape of a lentil. Their color depends on how recently they have eaten. They turn red after consuming a blood meal and then begin to gradually turn a brownish color. Capable of living up to ten months without a meal, a single bedbug can lay up to 500 eggs in its lifetime.

As bedbugs bite human skin, they inject an anesthetic-like liquid that numbs the skin and allows the pest to bite undisturbed. In fact, humans don’t usually wake up when they are being bitten; however, they do find themselves scratching circular, red, itchy welts in the morning.

“Bedbugs are definitely back here in the Hudson Valley. Our bedbug business has exploded with a 600% increase compared to last year alone.” said Craig Thomas, President for Craig Thomas Pest Control.

“Bedbug infestations should only be treated by trained, licensed, BedBugFree profession al pest management companies,” says Thomas. “This is not an infestation that can be treated by do-it-yourself measures. Professionals know where to look and can offer the most up to date methods of bedbug control.”


For more information, please contact us by phone 1.800.255.6777, email, twitter, facebook, our website or the National Pest Management Association.

Keep your home free of pests

August 15, 2010 - Poughkeepsie Journal Article

Craig Thomas Pest Control sponsors fundraiser to benefit diabetes research.

Craig Thoma Pest Control and Culumus Media station WPDH host Roof-A-Thon

 to help find a cure for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Each year, more than 13,000 young individuals are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes according to the Center for Disease Control. July 9-11, 2010, Culumus Media Station WPDH and Craig Thomas Pest Control hosted the 27th Annual Roof-A-Thon to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

"As a local business owner, giving back and supporting your local community is important," said Craig Thomas, President of Craig Thomas Pest Control. "Sponsoring Roof-A-Thon was an easy decision and really worth participating in." Along with sponsoring the event, Craig Thomas declared July and August JDRF months. Any new bee services during those months, ten percent of sale will go to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Diabetes was the seventh-leading cause of death listed on U.S. death certificates in 2006 and is likely to be under reported as a cause of death, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. Roof-A-Thon raised thousands dollars for JDRF. Jean-Marie Trick of JDRF said, " What a tremendous effort was made on behalf of JDRF - it was absolutely amazing."

Craig Thomas Pest Control (CTPC) is a local, third generation family owned business serving the entire Hudson Valley. CTPC offers pest management, home repair, nuisance wildlife and T.A.P. Insulation services. For more information contact us at 1.800.255.6777, email, twitter or facebook.

Picture: The Thomas Family & WPDHs Morning Show


                                                                               
                                                                                      

Bed Bugs are back!

It's no joke, bed bugs are back!

This means bed bugs are showing up more frequently everywhere and even here in the Hudson Valley. Many ask, how and why? Bed bugs have made a resurgence over the past few years due to increase travel, lack of public knowledge, resistance to pesticides and changes in pest management services.  Bed bugs are excellent hitch hikers (their nickname) and have the ability to spread at a rapid rate. Bed bugs are not fun, but there are many measures YOU can take to prevent yourself.

Bed Bug Identification:

• Small brownish insects just under a ¼ inch long.
• Oval in shape, flat and about as wide as they are long.
• Immature bed bugs are much smaller, about 1 mm and lighter in color.
• Bed bug eggs are very small, about 1 mm in size and whitish in color.
• After a blood meal, bed bugs will appear to be reddish in color.

How do I know I have bed bugs?

• Actually finding a bed bug itself.
• Finding blood stains on the bed due to the bed bug feeding.
• Very small black marks (size of pepper) on or near the sleeping area.
• Initially bed bug bites are painless, but turn into large, itchy welts. A good indication: waking up every morning with new bites.

I have bed bugs, now what?

• Bed bugs are best handled by a BedBugFree professional, like Craig Thomas Pest Control.
• Physical methods such as vacuuming or hot laundering can be helpful.
• Vacuums that are used to remove bed bugs can become infested
• Beds do not have to be thrown out, they can be saved by using an appropriate mattress & box spring encasements provided by Craig Thomas Pest Control.
• Sleeping in a different room or vacating the structure is not a solution and can make the problem more difficult to eliminate.

Most recently, New York City has experienced a major bed bug problem from hospitals, apartment buildings, high end stores and more! Below is a video acknowledging the increase in bed bug activity in the city. Bed Bugs on the rise in NYC!

Craig Thomas Pest Control is a locally owned, 3rd Generation family owned business serving the entire Hudson Valley. As a licensed, BedBugFree company, we are specialized in treating bed bugs. If you need us, call us at 1.800.255.6777, email, twitter or facebook.


*information and pictures provided by: www.bedbugcentral.com

Coyote Attacks young children in Westchester County

Following two coyote attacks on young children in Rye in recent days, the Westchester County Department of Health is reminding residents to presume, as a precaution, that any coyotes that attack people could have rabies.

 
"There is always the possibility that coyotes can carry rabies," said Dr. Cheryl Archbald, Westchester County's Acting Health Commissioner. "Anyone who is bitten or scratched by a coyote should go to the nearest hospital. In fact, all animal bites should be reported to the Westchester County Department of Health, at 914-813-5000, so that the individual can be evaluated for rabies treatment."

Coyotes usually do not attack humans. However as residents make outdoor plans for this holiday weekend, Westchester County Department of Health offers the following simple safety tips to deter coyotes from attacking and to keep them away from homes.

To keep coyotes from your property:

•  Bring pet food and water dishes inside.
• Do not put out food for birds.
• Do not leave food outside unattended; scrape your grill and burn off food residue.
• Cover garbage cans securely.
• Consider keeping small children and pets inside if there have been coyote sightings near your house.
• While outside, have handy a loud horn, noisemakers, or pots or pans to bang on and also things you can throw at coyotes.

 If a coyote approaches you:

•  Be aggressive: stand tall, shout in a loud voice, throw things at coyote, maintain eye contact and wave your arms as you try to scare it away and head indoors or to a more populated area.
• Do not turn your back and run, as the coyote will then view you as prey and give chase.
• Call 911. Do not try to catch the coyote unless you are a trained animal trapper.

Craig Thomas Pest Control is happy to announce, we have a full time trapper on staff to handle every animal, big or small. From squirrels, bats, beavers, skunks, woodchucks, coyotes or possums, we can handle it all. The name you already trust in pest control, expands to better serve our customers! Take advantage of this great service!

For more information about coyotes and rabies prevention, go to www.westchestergov.com/health or your local health department.

Article from: Westchester County Government - http://ow.ly/25ZqX

Picture: Encyclopædia Britannica Adovacy for Animals - http://ow.ly/25ZC8

 

June 2010 Meeting

Here at Craig Thomas Pest Control (CTPC), we understand the importance of a pest free environment and outstanding customer service. CTPC is committed to continuous training of all our staff, extending from the management, office, sales and technicians. As a QualityPro company, a designation from the National Pest Management Association, we pride ourself on being part of the 1% of national pest management companies with this mark of excellence.

QualityPro is an industry program designed to increase professionalism of the industry through self-regulation and a higher public perception of industry professionalism. The pest management industry needs to raise the bar for quality. QualityPro makes it easier by clearly identifying pest management companies that excel. Performing background checks, reference checks, maintaining a drug free workplace, practicing environmentally responsible pest control, employing highly trained employees, offering clear warranties and service agreements are all part of our dedication to QualtiyPro.

June 30, 2010, CTPC held their monthly meeting to discuss several topics from bees, fleas, flies, marketing and safety. Below are some great pictures of the CTPC Team:

The field staff learning on the job safety. Thank you to everyone who played a "role." It was a great educational experience.

The entire CTPC team gathered as one! We love to support and cheer on our fellow colleagues.

Lastly, we awarded one of our technicians, Henry Montalvo with a TV, DVD Player and Movie for his outstanding effort in sales over the last three months.

Congratulations Henry! You deserve it, keep up the great work!!

(L-R) Rick Harris, General Manager, Henry Montalvo, Technician, Craig Thomas, President.

If you are interested in joining the Craig Thomas Pest Control Family,

fill out an application today!

Increase in Pest Pressure Can Spoil the Season’s Festivities

Image courtesy of Chattanooga Real Estate Today

The countdown begins to July 4th weekend! 

A weekend to celebrate independence with fireworks, food, festivities, friends and family, Craig Thomas Pest Control and the National Pest Management Association offer advice for bug-free barbeque's.


June 30, 2010 (Fairfax, Va.) – Barbeque's can be a source of seasonal fun, but not when pests crash the party. Ants, flies and stinging insects are prevalent in the late summer and early fall and although often considered a mere annoyance to party goers, these pests can also bite, sting, carry diseases and contaminate food.


“Outdoor events can be tricky enough to plan for due to uncooperative weather and other unpredictable elements. Pest predicaments should not be another worry,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “More than just a nuisance, these pests can leave painful bites and transmit diseases, which should compel homeowners to take an active role in their prevention.”


NPMA recommends taking these precautions to discourage unwanted pests from spoiling barbeque fun:
• Ants and flies are attracted to typical barbeque fare. Serve food and beverages indoors, and reserve outdoor space for eating and entertaining. Keep food sealed in containers or covered whenever possible, and wipe tabletops frequently. Bring utensils and dishware indoors shortly after the meal. Dispose of trash in closed garbage containers and keep receptacles a good distance from where guests are gathered.
• Mosquitoes feed on blood, causing painful bite marks and sometimes carrying diseases such as Malaria and West Nile Virus. Remove/drain sources of standing water in the yard that could be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, including birdbaths and kiddie pools. When outside, wear insect repellent on exposed skin to prevent mosquito bites.
• Stinging insects are attracted to fragrances from candles, perfumes and even the food and drinks you serve. Provide clear cups for beverages, as soda/juice cans are good hiding spots for stinging pests.
• Properly screen doors and windows leading into the home. Remind guests to close doors when entering and exiting your home.
• If you’re concerned about an abundance of pests in your yard, contact a
Craig Thomas Pest Control, a licensed pest professional to help control the problem.

For more information on pests that can invade your barbeque,

visit Craig Thomas Pest Control or National Pest Management Association.

###

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 6,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property.

As you spend the weekend celebrating our freedom and independence, the team from Craig Thomas Pest Control wishes everyone a safe and happy 4th of July. Happy Birthday America!

News Article on Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc.

Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc. was featured in the Home & Garden supplement of Southern Dutchess, Northern Dutchess and Beacon Free Press Newspapers. The article featured information about our company, our approach and some helpful tips for homeowners. 

 Take a read and feel free to take advantage of the coupon below!

A card from a customer...

A great little card was sent in the mail yesterday from one of our wonderful customers!




Kuddos to Sean & all the staff at Craig Thomas Pest Control!

Summer Newsletter

Below is the link to our June/July Newsletter...Great stuff on ticks, termites and our company! Check it out!

Summer Alert from your friends at Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc.

Our Structural Repair Divisions latest project: A deck!

As Craig Thomas Pest Control expands to better serve our customers...Our services now include Structural Repair and Nuisance Wildlife control. Our Structural Repair Division, just completed a deck and our customer did not hesitate to express his happiness. Awesome job to our team, thank you to our customer for a great review!



Interested in our other Structural Repair Services?
- TAP Insulation
- Leaf Defier rain gutter protection
- Chimney Cap installations
- Intensified pest exclusions
- Rain Gutter replacement
- Nuisance wildlife damage repair
- Moisture decay repairs
- Attic restoration
- Attic/Basement remodels
- Custom repair work

We are happy to provide a free inspection and estimate for your needed home repairs, modifications or just about any light construction project that you might have in mind. Don't leave your chores on your to do list, leave them to Craig Thomas Pest Control!

Make Memorial Day & Summertime more enjoyable!

As the grills heat up, splashing in the pool begins and the temperatures rise, we know summer is here! This weekend, Memorial Day officially kicks off the summer season! Everyone from Craig Thomas Pest Control commemorate all U.S. men and women to have died while in military service.

While you enjoy Memorial Day with family and friends, the following steps can prevent and avoid pesky critters from invading your gatherings…
• Keep all meat products, plates and utensils covered tightly until the food is ready for grilling.
• Remove all sources of standing/stagnant water near your home. Flies and mosquitoes find water as breeding sources.
• Keep bird baths clean and refresh water weekly.
• Keep gutters and drain clean and debris free.
• Avoid over watering your yard; this will help save water too!
• Remove dog and cat droppings from yard.
• Keep trashcans and recycle bins clean, covered and away from hang out areas.
• A fan blowing over cooking, prep and eating surfaces will help reduce fly populations.
• A simple change of light bulbs from white to yellow will reduce the number of spiders and flies.
• Keep screens in good repair and make sure all windows have screens!



How to stay insect safe this summer…
• Encourage children to let you know if they see bees, hornets or other insects and their nests. Make sure they know never to touch these insects or nests.
• Examine children for ticks when they come inside for the night after playing in the yard or outdoors.
• Keep all lawn fertilizers and liquids, household cleaners, pool chemicals and gasoline out of reach of children.


The team at Craig Thomas Pest Control, Inc. wishes everyone a joyous, safe and pleasant summer. We are here to assist with your pest management, structural repair and nuisance wildlife needs. Remember, if you suspect any pest activity, call before the concern becomes a major infestation.


*Information from NPMA's Summer Pest Gazettes

The latest buzz from our customers about the Team at Craig Thomas Pest Control …

“Very good service. Very Professional.” Mike – Rhinebeck, NY

“You are honest and a pleasure to deal with.” Bonnie – Gardiner, NY

“Technician was very nice and clean to our house.” Virginia – Wallkill, NY

“Your technicians are polite and thorough. Your service is expertly handled.” Ruth – Washingtonville, NY

“It is a pleasure to do business with Craig Thomas Pest Control.” Ruth – Newburgh, NY

“We are extremely satisfied.” Eugene – Woodstock, NY

“Technician was highly competent and informative.” Pete – Fishkill, NY

“Technician was amazing and responsive. He spoke in such detail regarding my needs.” Mary – Rhinebeck, NY

"I have a very old house, and Joe truly showed that he cared with his recommendations/suggestions along with his service performance." Matt - Warwick, NY

"I just wanted to send a note of thanks for the terrific service that Craig Thomas has given us this past year. We are delighted to be one of your clients." Dan - Kingston, NY

"I just wanted to bring to your attention the fantastic personal demeanor and professionalism of one of your technicians, Dan P. Dan was at my house yesterday, as a follow up service call, and could not be more nicer, qualified, or patient in explaining all of the possible scenarios that could have played out in our house recently regarding a ‘pest issue’. He was there on time, in all of that snow, and was extremely knowledgeable and personable; one of the reasons why we continue to do business with your company. I believe that superior and outstanding service should be recognized, hence this email. In today’s business world, it is extremely refreshing to encounter an individual who cares about his job, his customers, and his company so much.It is so nice to deal with a company who is successful in hiring and retaining qualified individuals as part of its work team, and I will continue to recommend Craig Thomas Pest Control to family and friends as a direct result of my continued satisfaction with your company." Virginia - Wallkill, NY

Craig Thomas Pest Control takes extraordinary steps to ensure high performance standards among our employees, including technician background checks, continuous education and more. We take pride in protecting the health and property of entire Hudson Valley against pests, wildlife and offering many additional services to better serve our customers. For more feedback from our customers, please visit our website.

Look who's coming to dinner...

One of the wonderful aspects of the pest management industry includes the ongoing improvement of technology and products. Recently, Craig Thomas Pest Controlteamed with Dow AgroSciences for the latest technology in Termite Protection and Elimination.

Termites damage more homes than fires, earthquakes and storms combined! What a shattering fact! Subterranean termites are moderately to heavily found in the stateof New York. Termite swarming usually begins in our area, the end of March into May. Swarming is when a termite swarmer is looking for a swarmer of the opposite sex to establish a new colony with. However, swarming does not always occur, but there are other signs such as live or dead termites, finding damaged wood or mud tubes. The picture above is the Termite Life Cycle, for more info: http://tiny.cc/qzv1i

If termites do invade your home or property, Craig Thomas Pest Controlhas a green solution for you! The Sentricon Elimination System is a green method to termite control, using small amounts of active ingredient. Sentricon detects, eliminates and monitors termite colonies through its unique baiting system. In 2000, Sentricon received the Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award and has been chosen to protect The White House, Statue of Liberty and other national treasures.


Craig Thomas Pest Controlhas also taken the pro-active approach using the Halo Detection System to protect your most important asset, your home.
Halo provides visible proof if termites are active on your property through professional monitoring technology, which provides detectable proof, while you the owner enjoys peace of mind with a pesticide free detection system.


When you combine the #1 brand in Termite Protection with your local, trusted pest control company, Craig Thomas Pest Controland Dow AgroSciences are all the peace of mind you will ever need.

CTPC wins, award from The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce for Sustainability

Craig Thomas Pest Control is pleased to announce, despite the current economy, they have experienced their greatest growth to date. Craig Thomas Pest Control has earned the award from The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, for one of the most Sustainable Company in the Hudson Valley.




Last Wednesday, April 21, 2010, The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce recognized and honored the inaugural Headliner Awards. Six local businesses were recognized and honored at the breakfast. Awards were given out in leadership, outside-of-the-box innovator, sustainability and customer service awards.

Craig Thomas Pest Control is committed to finding new and better ways to protect health and property from pests, while offering new services, and maintaining the same level of trust and satisfaction among customers. Craig Thomas, owner of Craig Thomas Pest Control has had the ability to overcome the difficult times by offering auxiliary services from Gutter Protection, Home Repair, Nuisance Wildlife and T.A.P. Insulation. “Offering a wider array of services, allows us to better serve our customers needs and the opportunity to increase employment throughout the Hudson Valley. I am proud of my staff and the forty families I am able to provide for, said Craig Thomas.”

T.A.P. Insulation is the first product to add pest control performance with thermal benefits of stabilized cellulose insulation, while reducing high energy bills due to under-insulation. Craig Thomas’ Nuisance Wildlife Division protects against bats, beavers, moles, snakes, skunks and more. The newest division, Structural and Home Repair provides exclusion and replacement of pest damage along with other home improvement needs.

Craig Thomas Pest Control offers pest management, nuisance wildlife and home repair services to Dutchess, Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, Columbia, Greene, and Rockland Counties. For more information regarding Craig Thomas Pest Control or a free pest management audit, please visit www.callcraig.com.

Job Fair: Wednesday, April 14, 2010

This coming Wednesday, April 14, 2010, Craig Thomas Pest Control is participating in Dutchess Community College's Annual Job Fair. The fair takes place from 11am to 3pm in the gym at Falcon Hall. The fair is expected to be every busy! Bring your resumes, we look forward to seeing you!
For more information read the following article. If you are interested in employement with Craig Thomas Pest Control, fill out an online application, today.