All garbage and trash are breeding places for diseases, germs, and insects and serve as food for rodents. To avoid this:

• Keep garbage and trash in easily washed containers that are tight fitting and prevent flies from entering
• Use plastic liners for garbage cans to aid in cleaning the containers.  If plastic liners are not used, newspaper can be used but is not as effective
• Wash garbage cans daily with hot, soapy water
• Use insect sprays and rodent bait in and near the garbage and waste area.  Only sprays approved by the health authority should be used
• Routinely inspect incoming shipments of food, supplies, and premises for bugs to control the spread of pests
• Eliminate harboring conditions where pest might nest. Using trapping devices or other means of pests control to minimize spread
• Leave work and dining area clean from debris that pests may feed upon

A food service establishment must be free of all pests -- particularly flies, roaches, ants, mice, and rats. Rodents and insects walk and feed on all kinds of filth, pick up germs on their feet and bodies, and then deposit the germs on any food and utensil they touch.

Methods of controlling pests

1. Seal cracks and keep screens closed.

2. Keep foods covered and clean up spilled foods immediately.

3. Dispose of trash and garbage promptly.

4. Close all openings around wiring, drain pipes, vents, and flues to make them rat and insect proof.

5. Carefully follow instructions on labels when using poisons and chemicals. Purchase and use only those approved by the health authority for use in food establishments.

6. Food products, such as flour, sugar, pancake mix, etc., should be removed from their original containers and placed in approved sealed tight containers that are properly labeled and more impermeable to pests (rodent proof).

For protection against possible chemical poisoning, insecticide dispensers should not be within 12 feet of exposed food, food preparation, or serving areas or food contact surfaces.  This includes all food equipment, utensils, tables, counters, and similar articles and space used in the preparation of food and drink.

Good housekeeping is a must in controlling pests.  No amount of pesticides can replace good daily Housekeeping practices!

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