If you are unsure about your record, order a copy of your driving record from your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). [3] X Research source Talk the DMV about ways to improve your record such as taking a driver safety course.
During pest control training, you will learn about rodent control, termite control, pesticide use and safety, and fumigation. [4] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source To be a pest control specialist, you really have to understand the science and biology of pests That way, you can inspect a situation and think about the best course of action. . [5] X Research source Joshua Bloom. Pest Control Specialist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020. Training can usually be completed in 3 months or less. [6] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source
Some employers offer both classroom instruction and on-the-job training. You will not need to attend a pest control training program if you get a job at one of these companies. Large companies are more likely to offer this. The amount of on-the-job training you need will vary based on the state you plan to work. Check the requirements in your state before you begin training.
Visit the National Pesticide Information Center website to get contact information for your state pesticide regulatory agency. [7] X Trustworthy Source National Pesticide Information Center Organization run by Oregon State University providing objective, science-based information about pests and pesticides Go to source
Check with your state regulatory agency to determine the experience and licensing requirements for each level.
Continuing education is usually required to maintain your certification. Check with your state to determine the requirements.
Integrated Pest Management focuses on preventing and managing pests in the most cost-effective and environmentally safe way. Understanding the type of pest you are dealing with is the foundation for the management plan you will develop. Also note the time of year it is, the weather conditions, and the characteristics of the damage that the pest has caused when you are doing your evaluation. [15] X Research source
Cultural controls are things you can do to prevent pests from entering the area. These include watering and fertilizing plants[17] X Research source , using pest resistant plants, and having good sanitation habits. Physical and mechanical controls include using barriers, using heat treatments, and knocking pests off of plants by spraying water. For instance, if a home is having a rodent problem, you might inspect the roof, windows, and doorways for any small entry points the rodents could be using to get in. [18] X Research source Joshua Bloom. Pest Control Specialist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020. Biological controls include using insecticides that kill the target but not other beneficial insects and utilizing natural enemies of the target pest. A natural enemy is another organism that kills or eats the target pest. [19] X Trustworthy Source University of California Integrated Pest Management Program Research-based pest management program run by the University of California’s Cooperative Extension Go to source
To treat a large infestation, like an ant problem, try using a bait that the insects can carry back to their nest. [21] X Research source Joshua Bloom. Pest Control Specialist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020. You can combine pesticide treatments with some of the other non-chemical methods. Once you have gotten rid of the pests, continue using non-chemical ways to prevent the pests from coming back.
