Cockroaches
Concerns, Trigger Description and What you can do
- Poor Air Quality
- Tobacco Smoke
- Smoke from Wood Burning Stoves
- Volatile Organic Compounds
- Pollen
- Molds
- Dust Mites
- Cockroaches
- Pet dander
- Poorly Maintained Appliances
- Traveling
Complete Solutions (PDF 196kb)
Trigger Description and What you can do
Cockroach droppings contain a protein that is a primary trigger for asthma. Cockroaches need water to survive and thrive on food and trash that is left out.
What you can do:
Keep a clean, dry home (see also mold section)
Fix leaks promptly.
Keep food in closed containers.Avoid leaving food out, especially at night.
Clean dishes as soon as you are done using them. Clean kitchen thoroughly after meals.Clean under appliances, including emptying the drip pan under the refrigerator. Many current (1989 to present) refrigerators have "fixed" drip pans either built in as part of the compressor mount or physically attached to the condenser instead of under the refrigerator. Check for leaks throughout refrigerator that could result in standing water.
Store garbage in containers with tightly closed lids.
Dispose of mail, newspapers and boxes where cockroaches may hide.
Block any openings through which cockroaches can enter from the outside, including windows, wall cracks and floor gaps.
Try using baits or traps before using pesticidal sprays.
If you spray, limit the spray to the infested area and avoid spraying in food preparation or storage areas.