FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Question :
I had a swarm of what I think are flying ants in my home, and a friend told me that they might be termites. How can I tell the difference ?

Answer :
Termites are often confused with ants; however, a few simple things distinguish the two. Termite swarmers have a broad waist and straight antennae, and both wings are the same size. Ants have a thin, pinched waist and elbowed antennae, and their hind wings are smaller than the front wings.

Question :
I have a bug problem, but I am not sure what the problem is. How can I find out what it is and how to get rid of it ?

Answer :
You have come to the right place. If you can't find the specific insect on the Web site, e-mail us and we will respond to your questions directly. We also offers a comprehensive Pest Identification Guide that may help you identify your pest and provide more information about its habits and biology. For more comprehensive information, you may be interested in our free inspections - a trained inspector will inspect your home, identify the insect, and recommend a method of treatment.

Question :
How do I know if the materials that a pest control operator is using are safe ?

Answer :
First, make sure that any company you hire is reputable, licensed, and well-trained to ensure that they are knowledgeable and responsible in handling pesticides. Pesticides, by nature, are designed to kill and therefore cannot be termed "safe." They can, however, be used responsibly with little or no impact on people, pets, or plants if they are used in accordance with labeled directions. If you have specific health concerns, ask your pest control operator for copies of the label, which contains information on the active ingredients, level of toxicity, and other information that you can discuss with your doctor.

Question :
I am surprised that Stopest takes so much time to educate people about insects when their business is to kill them. Why do you bother educating people about bugs ?

Answer :
Over the decade that we have been in business, we have learned quite a lot about insects and have developed a strong respect for them. Of the thousands of species in the insect world, our role is actually pretty limited. In fact, less than one percent of all insect species pose a threat to homeowners and require Stopest's expertise. We know that they play an important role in our ecosystem, and we are committed to educating others about the benefits, as well as harmful effects of insects. This Web site is only one way that we educate people. We offer educational materials to homeowners as well as teachers for their classrooms.

Question :
I am a school teacher and always looking for new materials for my class. Does Stopest provide any materials on insects ?

Answer :
Yes. We offer a teachers' handbook on Malaysian Household And Structural Pests. It is available free to teachers by calling our hotline.

Question :
Why should I hire a professional pest control operator when I can do it myself ?

Answer :
Do-it-yourself pest control is certainly an option for homeowners; however, most homeowners lack the knowledge and training that professionals have to treat pest problems effectively. An essential component in treating a pest problem effectively is correctly identifying the insect species and developing a course of treatment that takes the insect's biology and habits into account. It is also critical that the treatment materials used are handled properly to ensure effective treatment and environmental responsibility. A professional pest control operator has the training and expertise to do these things, leading to the most effective solution to your pest problem. If you do choose to handle your pest problem yourself, be sure to follow all label directions carefully.