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Ticks aren't dangerous, but their bites are often imperceptible thanks to a numbing agent in their saliva. They can carry and transmit pathogens to people and animals, leading to diseases such as anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Lyme disease. So if you live in a region with a high tick prevalence, tick treatment is worthwhile to keep your family and pets safe.

If you’re wondering whether pest control services are safe, rest assured that they are if you hire a licensed and experienced exterminator. Professionals are trained to use EPA-approved products in controlled amounts and apply them in targeted areas to minimize exposure to people and pets. Plus, many modern pest control methods are designed to be low-risk while still effectively eliminating pests like scorpions. If you have concerns about chemicals, ask your exterminator about eco-friendly or integrated pest management (IPM) options, which focus on prevention and minimal pesticide use.

Although raccoons aren’t particularly picky regarding food, certain sounds, metals, and smells bother them. You can place these items around your home to keep raccoons away:

• Place wire mesh screens around and underneath decks and porches to prevent raccoons from nesting. 

• Put metal sheeting around the edges of your roof or at the base of trees to deter raccoons from coming close. 

• Place a loud battery-operated radio near the raccoon’s den to keep them from nesting.

• Keep a bowl of cider vinegar on your deck or porch.

• Remove old raccoon scents by thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting underneath porches and decks.

Yes, it is generally safe to return to your house once the pest control professionals have granted permission. Keep in mind that you’ll only need to evacuate your home during extreme pest control treatments, such as whole-home fumigation, while more minor treatments don’t require leaving. When you return home, be sure to follow the pest pro’s instructions carefully, especially those surrounding wait times and safety precautions.