- Managing a restaurant can be challenging, and pests can make it even more difficult.
- To control rodents, store all food items in airtight containers and contact an exterminator immediately if you find signs of infestation.
- Cockroaches can be prevented through regular cleaning practices, while flies should be kept away by keeping all trash cans covered.
- To protect your restaurant from pests, you should apply proactive tips such as outdoor and indoor care, renovation, and proper food storage.
Managing a restaurant can be a complex and demanding job. It requires long hours, hard work, dedication, and attention to detail to succeed. However, some problems can make managing a restaurant a lot harder. One of these problems is pests.
Most Common Pests in Restaurants
As a restaurant owner, you know that pests can be a significant problem. They can damage your reputation, cause health risks, and cost you money in lost inventory. While many pests may find their way into your business, the most common are rats, mice, cockroaches, and flies. Here’s how to identify and control them.
Rats & Mice
Their small size, long tails, and large ears can identify rats and mice. They typically hide during the day and come out to look for food at night. Rats carry all sorts of diseases and can contaminate food, so keeping them away from your restaurant is essential.
Additionally, store all your food items in airtight containers to prevent rodents from accessing them. If you already have a rodent infestation in your restaurant, contact an exterminator immediately, as they can carry diseases such as leptospirosis, which is dangerous to humans.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are one of the most common pests found in restaurants because they can survive on almost any type of food or liquid. These insects have flat, oval-shaped bodies with long antennae and six legs.
The best way to prevent cockroaches from entering your restaurant is through regular cleaning practices, such as wiping down surfaces after each shift and ensuring floors are swept regularly. In addition, if there is an existing infestation of cockroaches in your restaurant, contact an exterminator immediately,y as these insects spread various diseases such as salmonella, which can cause severe illnesses for customers if consumed.
Flies
Flies can be identified by their small size (typically 1/4 inch) and two wings on each side of their body that allow them to move from place to place rapidly. In addition, flies like warm moist environments ensure that all areas, including restrooms, are kept clean so they do not have a place to breed or lay eggs.
Keep all trash cans covered, so flies cannot lay eggs or feed off the garbage. If you already have a fly infestation contact an exterminator immediately since flies carry diseases such as E Coli, which could potentially cause serious illness if consumed by customers or employees of the restaurant.
Tips to Keep Pests Away
As a restaurant owner, you must understand the potential risks posed by these four common pests to protect yourself from possible damages caused by them in your business operations. You should also consider applying these proactive tips to ensure that an infestation doesn’t happen in your restaurant.
Outdoor Care
If your restaurant has some outdoor space or is near a forest, you must take care of the surrounding area. First, look into the trees around your area. These can be home to many different pests. Consider tree pruning services to keep the trees and shrubs around your restaurant free from any problems. Second, clear away any debris or leaves that can attract pests. This can ensure your restaurant looks good from the outside while keeping pests away.
Indoor Care
Ensure all surfaces are cleaned inside your restaurant regularly, as these can provide a food source for pests. Additionally, store all food items in airtight containers to prevent access from problems. Lastly, use an insect repellant in the kitchen and dining areas to discourage unwanted visitors.
Renovate
You must also renovate any old or damaged parts of your restaurant. This can help prevent pests from entering through cracks and holes in the walls or floors. You should also check for any infestations regularly and contact an exterminator immediately if you find one.
Food Storage
The last tip is to pay attention to your food storage. Make sure all food items are stored in airtight containers and sealed properly. This will help keep pests from accessing the food and ensure it is kept fresh for longer periods of time.
By following these tips, your restaurant can be free of pests, making it a safe and enjoyable place for customers and employees. Not only this, but it can also help protect your business from potential damages caused by pests.
