Exterior & Interior Care --- Section 3
The Executive 2005
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Ants live in colonies. Only a fraction of the ant colony will leave to seek food. Spraying pesticides
will only kill the ants that are away from the colony. To eliminate all ants, the colony must be
destroyed. Keep ants away from the sewer hose by spraying the hose ends with a soap and water solu-
tion.
Fleas can be removed by properly treating pets with a veterinarian approved treatment and by thor-
oughly cleaning the motorhome. Vacuum vinyl areas and tile floors to remove dust, flea larva and flea
eggs. Follow by thoroughly washing those areas with soap and water. Carpets must be vacuumed and
treated with a residual flea control product labeled safe for indoor carpet and furniture use. Perform the
cleaning treatment daily for three days to ensure that all fleas have encountered the treatment.
Flying outdoor insects are attracted to bright light. Yellow porch light covers on the motorhome
work to discourage insect invasion. During nighttime hours insects will be attracted to docking lights,
or other bright exterior lighting.
If the presence of moths is detected inside of the motorhome, usually by holes appearing in materi-
al, clean the affected clothing and all other items stored in the same area. Follow by completely clean-
ing the closet, dresser or storage area. If cracks are detected, seal the cracks and treat the area with a
properly labeled indoor pest control product.
Birds:
Even birds can be considered pests, particularly when the motorhome is parked in the flight path of
a flock. Bird droppings are hard to remove and will leave stains. Prevent permanent staining to the
motorhome roof by regularly cleaning the surface to remove all bird droppings.
Damage from Pest:
Lizards have been known to crawl into the inverter and short out the circuit board. Lizards can be
captured using glue traps. To remove the lizard from the trap, dissolve the glue with vegetable oil and
release it outside and well away from the motorhome. A scorpion will glow blue-green in UV light. If
the presence of scorpions in the motorhome is suspected, investigate with an UV black light during
the nighttime hours.
Best sources of information about common household pests:
The Internet is a great place to find information about common pests, however, the information is
not always correct. The National Pest Management Association website can be useful resource about
common pest. Another good source for information are colleges and universities with entomology
departments (entomology is the study of insects).
Electronic pest control devices can be costly and most likely will not work on all types of rodents
and insects. When calling on the services of a professional to combat pest infestation, call a reputable
business that is licensed in handling pesticides. Check references. Explain that you are seeking assistance
for a motorhome, as treatments may differ from standard household jobs.
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