Question 1

Are snake repellents safe to use?

Accepted Answer

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Some snake repellents are risky to use around people and pets because they use the active ingredient in mothballs, naphthalene. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified naphthalene as a carcinogen that can cause damage to the liver, neurological issues, and cataracts.

The Colorado State University Extension suggests there’s not enough conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of snake repellents to recommend their use.

Question 2

Why is there a skunky smell in my house?

Accepted Answer

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If you’ve spotted a skunk or know that one of these furry creatures sprayed one of your family members, your answer is fairly obvious. However, a skunky smell in your house that isn’t coming from these critters may be a sign of a dangerous gas leak. If you suspect this, leave your home immediately and call emergency services. It could also be a build-up of dangerous gas in your home’s septic system or plumbing. Call a professional plumber near you to make an assessment.

Question 3

Should I continue sleeping in my bed if I have bed bugs?

Accepted Answer

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While it may seem counterintuitive, it is best to continue sleeping in your bed even if you have a bed bug infestation. If you move to another room, the bed bugs may follow you, which can spread the infestation to other parts of your home. To minimize bites while you sleep, wear protective clothing that covers as much of your body as possible, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks. In the meantime, you should also isolate any potentially infested belongings and take steps to kill the bed bugs on your mattress as quickly as possible while waiting for professional treatment.

Question 4

How do I permanently get rid of gophers?

Accepted Answer

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Gophers are ubiquitous in certain areas, and the only way to completely get rid of them is to put down gopher wire two feet below the surface of your soil and vertically along the edges of your yard. Unfortunately, this may not be a practical solution unless you’re completely redoing your yard or installing an aboveground garden. Alternatively, you may consider putting underground rock barriers around the edge of your yard to discourage gopher visits. However, you’ll still likely get some pests because they can dig as deep as 6 feet below the surface.

Question 5

Should I let wolf spiders live in my house?

Accepted Answer

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Allowing wolf spiders to reside in your home can have benefits, as they serve as natural exterminators, preying on insects and pests that could become problematic. Their presence can help keep your residence relatively free of nuisance insects such as flies, ants, and cockroaches, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Wolf spiders are generally not hostile towards humans, and their bites, although painful, usually don't result in a significant medical concern. If you can coexist peacefully with these spiders and recognize their role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem within your household, they can contribute to a healthier and pest-reduced environment.