After a long and wet winter, mosquito season begins in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they pose a serious risk to public health. These tiny pests can transmit numerous diseases to both people and pets, including Zika virus, West Nile virus, dog heartworm, and multiple forms of encephalitis. Alarmingly, in recent years, locally acquired cases of malaria have been detected in Maryland.

The Key to Mosquito Control: Eliminating Breeding Sites

The most effective way to prevent a spring mosquito invasion is to remove their breeding grounds. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, making it essential for homeowners to eliminate these sources around their property. Common culprits include:

• Old tires
• Buckets
• Flowerpot drip trays
• Unused children’s toys (such as sandboxes)
• Clogged rain gutters
• Birdbaths and ponds

For water-containing areas that cannot be drained like koi ponds and fountains, consider installing a circulation or agitation system. Mosquitoes will not breed in moving water, and solar-powered fountains available online are an easy and eco-friendly solution.

Targeting Mosquito Larvae

If standing water cannot be removed, using larvicides is an effective control method. Mosquito dunks containing Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI) are an eco-friendly and natural solution. BTI targets only mosquito larvae, blackflies, and fungus gnats while being harmless to people and animals. These products are readily available online and at local retailers.

Additional Prevention Strategies

In addition to removing breeding sites, there are other effective ways to reduce mosquito populations in your yard:

• Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Citronella grass, basil, and lavender are known to deter mosquitoes.
• Lawn Maintenance: Mosquitoes rest on the undersides of leaves during the day, so trimming overgrown areas can help reduce their presence.
• Encourage Natural Predators: Installing bat houses on your property can attract little brown bats, which can consume hundreds of mosquitoes in a single night.

The Limitations of DIY Sprays

Many commercially available sprays claim to repel mosquitoes but often provide only short-lived results. No single method alone is a foolproof solution, so a combination of control strategies is the most effective approach.

Professional Mosquito Control Solutions

For the best results, professional pest control services use an integrated approach that includes:

• Habitat modification to eliminate breeding grounds
• Larvicide applications to target mosquito larvae
• Adult mosquito treatments using traditional pesticides or eco-friendly alternatives

At Viking Pest Control, we offer comprehensive mosquito control solutions to keep your home and yard safe. Our Award-Winning Last Bite mosquito and tick yard treatments have a proven track record of driving mosquitos away. Starting in 2025, we have added a Last Bite Green mosquito control option. Last Bite is also included in several of our more comprehensive home pest control plans. Contact us today to learn more about our professional treatment options and enjoy a mosquito-free environment all season long. 

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., February 25, 2025 – Viking Pest Control, a leading pest control company in NJ, PA, DE, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland, is proud to announce the launch of the new “Viking Green” program. Viking Green offers low-impact, sustainable, and natural pest control options for homes and businesses across the region. Each of Viking Green’s three annual pest control plans covers more than 30 common pests, including Ants, Mice, Rats, Wasps, Spiders, and more. Viking’s award-winning Last Bite Mosquito & Tick service is also launching a green option.

While Viking Green itself is a new program, Viking Pest has a long history of providing eco-friendly services. Viking holds a Green Pro certification from the National Pest Management Association, which is the gold standard for environmentally responsible pest control. Viking has also been named the best pest control company for sustainability by The Spruce for four consecutive years.

“The Viking Green program was created as a culmination of our years of effort to provide the most effective and reliable low-impact program we could for our customers,” said James McIntyre, President of Viking Pest Control. “We have expanded our knowledge, our technology, and our team to make this program the best of its kind.”

Each of Viking Green’s three core annual plans includes SMART Pest Control technology, which allows our team to monitor pest activity 24/7 even in hard –to-reach or hard-to-see places; termite baiting and Last Bite Green Mosquito & Tick control are available as part of the higher tier Viking Green plans.

Viking Green follows the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a scientifically backed method designed to control pests efficiently while reducing use of harmful products. This approach integrates prevention, monitoring, and precise treatments to manage pest populations effectively, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

Viking Pest Control is a leading provider of pest management services committed to ensuring a healthy living environment for its customers. With a team of highly skilled professionals and a customer-centric approach, the company offers comprehensive pest control solutions tailored to meet individual needs. Viking's dedication to excellence, innovation, and community involvement sets it apart as a trusted industry leader.

For more information about Viking Pest Control, please visit Vikingpest.com.

This article originally appeared in The Viking Voice, Viking Pest Control's LinkedIn Newsletter.

According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, Camden County, NJ, and Philadelphia and Delaware County, PA, are three of the ten most rodent-infested counties in the United States, with Philadelphia County being the most infested county in the country. Notably, these three counties are located right next to each other. This isn’t a coincidence. There are clear and verifiable reasons why these areas need extra attention from pest control professionals.

Philadelphia County and the City of Philadelphia are essentially synonymous. The city has long struggled with rodent infestations, ranking among the most rat-infested cities in the country. A combination of aging infrastructure, improper waste management, and a high density of food establishments has created ideal conditions for rats and mice to thrive. Understanding the factors contributing to the problem and implementing effective control measures is essential for keeping Philadelphia’s rodent population in check. Conditions are similar in Camden and Delaware counties which also have numerous highly urbanized areas.

The Impact of Housing and Construction

Older construction is a frequent culprit for rodent infestations. Philadelphia, in particular, has a sizable number of buildings constructed in the 1940s and earlier that are still in regular use today. While often charming and nostalgic, these buildings were not built with rodent control in mind and provide numerous architectural weaknesses that allow them access. Older buildings are also more likely to have multi-tiered interiors, including multiple layers of ceilings and flooring between which rodents can hide.

However, older buildings aren’t the only problem. Another major contributor to rodent infestations in Philadelphia, Delaware and Camden Counties is poor construction quality in housing complexes. Many buildings and houses, particularly those built between the 1980s and early 2000s, feature porous construction, making them more susceptible to rodent entry. These structures were often built with size and cost efficiency in mind, neglecting to seal the exteriors as thoroughly as construction from the preceding and subsequent eras.

Additionally, abandoned buildings serve as long-term reservoirs for rodent populations. These neglected structures often go unchecked for years, allowing rats and mice to multiply and eventually spread to neighboring areas.

Food Sources and Urban Environments

Despite the lack of natural food sources in urban settings, Philadelphia provides an abundance of food through improperly managed waste. Trash disposal remains a significant issue, with overflowing dumpsters and littered streets offering a continuous food supply for rodents. This problem is exacerbated by the city’s numerous restaurants, which produce substantial amounts of waste close to residential areas.

Behavioral Patterns of Rodents

Different species of rodents exhibit unique nesting habits. White-footed field mice prefer elevated locations, often nesting in soffits and attics. In contrast, house mice prefer to nest close to the ground. Due to their small size and high metabolism, these animals struggle to maintain body heat and are drawn to indoor environments during colder months.

Rats, on the other hand, remain hidden until populations reach critical levels. In suburban areas, residents often don’t notice rat activity until infestations become severe. In urban areas, where sightings occur more frequently, residents tend to act on the problem sooner.

Rodents' high metabolism requires them to consume enormous amounts of calories relative to their body size. They seek warm resting spots such as compressor housings and behind ovens and dishwashers. Pregnant female rodents prioritize nesting materials over food, often pulling on furniture to create warm nests that can be up to 25 degrees warmer than the outdoor environment.

Moving Toward a City-Wide Solution

The urban infrastructure in these counties presents another obstacle to effective rodent control. A single city block may contain a public park, subway system, apartment complex, and commercial buildings, all interwoven in a way that allows rodents to move freely between different structures. This creates a cycle of reinfestation, as eliminating rodents in one building does not address the problem in adjacent buildings. City parks also serve as harborage locations for rodents, yet pest control efforts in these areas are often insufficient.

Currently, rodent control efforts are largely focused on individual properties rather than comprehensive city-wide solutions. To effectively reduce rodent populations, Philadelphia must prioritize improved trash management, stricter building maintenance regulations, and coordinated pest control efforts across public and private spaces. Addressing these issues will require collaboration between city officials, business owners, landlords, and residents to create a cleaner, healthier urban environment for all.

Viking Pest offers a community-focused rodent control option with SMART Cities. This program is designed to work on city streets and in sewers to monitor rodent activity and eliminate the pests where they are most active.

By taking proactive measures, Philadelphia, Delaware, and Camden counties can better manage their rodent populations and mitigate the long-term risks associated with urban infestations.

During the winter your Bergen County, NJ home becomes the perfect warm refuge for pests seeking shelter from the changing seasons. Proactive prevention and an understanding of overwintering pests are essential in keeping them out of your property.

Understanding Overwintering Pests

Overwintering pests instinctively seek warm shelter to survive the harsh winter months. Unfortunately, this often means they invade your home, where warmth, food, and moisture are abundant. You may commonly see the following pests in your house as temperatures drop, as they are persistent invaders during this time:

• Boxelder Bugs: These black insects with red or orange markings love clinging to curtains or climbing walls, favoring homes with ample sun exposure.

• Stinkbugs: Brown, shield-shaped bugs that emit an unpleasant odor. They are often found in cabinets, on walls, or in basements and crawl spaces.

• Ladybugs: These red or orange beetles gather in large numbers on ceilings and can leave stains and unpleasant odors around your house.

• Cluster Flies: Cluster Flies resemble common house flies but are noticeably larger. Their bodies have a dull gray hue with black markings, and they can be identified by the distinctive golden hairs covering their backs.

• Rodents: Mice and rats vary in size and color but are among the most troublesome pests. They hide in attics, basements, walls, and food storage areas, causing damage and potential health hazards.

Beyond being an eyesore, these pests can cause significant damage. Insects can stain furniture, emit foul odors, and leave droppings. Rodents may contaminate food storage areas, while insects and rodents alike can chew on furniture or structural elements of your home. Additionally, rodents can introduce diseases, and their urine and feces may spread illnesses.

Overwintering Pest Prevention

The best way to keep overwintering pests from invading your home is through proactive prevention in the fall and ongoing professional care with Viking Pest Control. Additionally, here are several preventive measures you can take to reduce pest infestations:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, or openings around windows, doors, and the foundation. Ensure window and door screens are intact, and consider investing in a chimney cap to keep rodents out of your attic.

• Maintain Cleanliness: Regular vacuuming, dusting, and decluttering help remove any insects that have already entered and minimize potential hiding spots.

• Secure Trash and Food Waste: Keep garbage and food waste in tightly sealed containers and dispose of them promptly to prevent attracting pests in the first place.

Effective Expert Pest Control

Winter pest invasions can be a nightmare, as insects and rodents seek warmth inside your home. The most effective way to eliminate and prevent pest infestations is by contacting the professionals at Viking Pest Control. Our expert team offers safe, efficient pest control solutions to protect your home from unwelcome winter guests. Call us today to schedule an inspection and keep your home pest-free all season long!

The Cockroach Chronicles: What You Need to Know About These Unwanted Guests

Cockroaches. Just the word alone can make your skin crawl! These resilient little creatures have been around for millions of years, thriving in the toughest conditions. But when they invade your home or business, they’re more than just a nuisance—they can be a real problem. So, let’s break it down and talk about the types of cockroaches you might encounter, where they hide, common misconceptions, and most importantly—how to get rid of them!

What Types of Cockroaches Are Out There?

Believe it or not, there are over 4,500 cockroach species worldwide. The good news? Only a handful actually infest homes and businesses. These pests fall into two main categories:

• Domestic Cockroaches – These guys are homebodies, spending their entire lives indoors. The most common offender? The German cockroach. If you’ve had a roach problem in your home, chances are it was one of these.

• Peridomestic Cockroaches – These roaches live mostly outdoors but can (and will) invade your home when the conditions are right. Examples include the American cockroach, Oriental cockroach, and Wood cockroach.

Some roaches, like the American and Oriental species, love storm drains and sewers and might enter through open pipes or dried-up drain traps. Wood cockroaches, on the other hand, are drawn to home lights in the fall and can easily be mistaken for German cockroaches. The key difference? Wood cockroaches can’t reproduce indoors, making them more of an annoying visitor than a long-term problem.

Where Do Cockroaches Hide?

If you’re dealing with German cockroaches, check areas near moisture—under sinks, behind dishwashers, inside cabinets, and around refrigerators. They love tight spaces where their bodies can touch both sides of a crack or crevice (a behavior called thigmotaxis).

American and Oriental cockroaches aren’t as picky about moisture, so you might find them coming up from basement floor drains or traveling between apartments using plumbing lines and wall voids. They’ll even settle in expansion joints beneath concrete slabs.

Common Cockroach Myths Busted

One of the biggest misconceptions? “Once you have cockroaches, you can never get rid of them.” That’s not true! The problem is that many store-bought pesticides aren’t effective anymore because roaches have built up resistance. Some products, like bug bombs, can actually make things worse by driving cockroaches deeper into hiding. But with the right tools, baits, and techniques, professional pest control can eliminate them for good.

How Do You Know If You Have a Cockroach Problem?

• Seeing a roach – If you spot one, there are probably more hiding nearby.

• Droppings – Looks like black pepper or coffee grounds near cracks and crevices.

• Smell – Large infestations give off a musty, sweet odor that’s hard to miss.

DIY Cockroach Control: Does It Work?

Yes, to an extent. If you want to try tackling the issue yourself, here’s what you should do:

• Deep Clean – Remove food crumbs, grease, and moisture sources.

• Use Gel Baits – These are highly effective, as cockroaches will eat the bait and spread it to others.

• Apply Dusts – Products like diatomaceous earth or silica dust work well in voids and cracks.

• Avoid Bug Bombs – They often drive cockroaches deeper into walls, making them harder to eliminate.

• Vacuum Roaches – If you flush them out, vacuum them up and dispose of the bag outside.

Do Natural Remedies Work?

Diatomaceous earth and silica dust can be effective if used correctly. Some plant essential oils kill roaches on contact, but they’re highly repellent, which means cockroaches might just move to another part of your home instead of dying off.

When Should You Call a Professional?

If you see roaches during the daytime, that’s a red flag—meaning you likely have a serious infestation. If DIY methods don’t reduce activity within 30 days, it’s time to call in the experts. Professionals have specialized tools and products that work far better than what’s available to homeowners.

How to Choose the Right Pest Control Company

• Check for Licensing & Insurance – Look up the company on your state’s pesticide licensing agency website.

• Look for Quality Pro Accreditation – This certification from the National Pest Management Association ensures high standards.

• Read Online Reviews – Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback.

• Ask Questions – Find out what their treatments involve and if you need to take any precautions.

How Do Professionals Treat Cockroach Infestations?

• Aerosolized Materials – Applied into cracks and crevices where roaches hide.

• Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) – Stop roaches from reproducing.

• Dust Injections – Help eliminate roaches inside wall voids.

• Multiple Bait Formulations – Professionals use different baits to ensure effectiveness, even if roaches have developed resistance.

Preventing Future Cockroach Infestations

Want to keep roaches out for good? Here’s what you can do:

• Keep It Clean – Cockroaches love food residue and grease.

• Fix Leaks & Moisture Issues – Roaches thrive in damp environments.

• Use Glue Traps – Place them under sinks and in hidden areas to detect early infestations.

• Seal Entry Points – Use silicone or synthetic sealants to close gaps and cracks.

• Be Cautious with Cardboard Boxes – Roaches love to hide in them, so don’t leave takeout containers sitting around.

• Report Issues if You Live in an Apartment – The sooner an infestation is addressed, the easier it is to control.

Contact Viking Pest for Professional Cockroach Control

Cockroach infestations can be frustrating, but they’re not impossible to control. Whether you go the DIY route or call in the pros, acting fast is key. Stay vigilant, keep your home clean, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if things get out of hand.

Protect Your Home from Squirrel Infestations with Viking Pest Control

Squirrels may be cute and fun to watch as they scurry through the trees, but when they invade your home, they can cause extensive and costly damage. If you’re dealing with a squirrel problem in your attic or want to prevent one from happening, Viking Pest Control is here to help.

The Hidden Dangers of Squirrels in Your Attic

Squirrels are incredibly resourceful and can create entry points into your home by enlarging small gaps and holes. They frequently chew through wooden rooflines, rip up shingles, and expose your attic to moisture damage. Once inside, squirrels will shred insulation to build nests and, more alarmingly, chew on electrical wires, posing a significant fire hazard. In fact, squirrels have been linked to house fires and even power grid failures due to their incessant gnawing habits.

How Squirrels Get In

Squirrels are expert climbers, often traveling along tree branches to reach your roof. If you have overhanging branches within six feet of your house, you’re providing a direct pathway for these critters. To protect your home, it’s crucial to:

• Trim tree branches back at least six feet from the structure.

• Inspect rooflines, fascia boards, and attic vents for damage or gaps.

• Repair broken windows and secure vent screens to prevent entry.

• Keep gutters clean to prevent water damage that weakens your home’s exterior.

The Risks of DIY Squirrel Removal

While you may be tempted to handle a squirrel problem on your own, there are serious risks involved. Squirrels can bite and scratch when cornered, potentially transmitting dangerous diseases such as rabies. If you are scratched or bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, many states have strict regulations regarding the trapping and relocation of wildlife. Improper handling could result in fines or other legal consequences.

Viking Pest Control’s Proven Squirrel Removal Process

At Viking Pest Control, we use a strategic and humane approach to squirrel removal. Our process includes:

1. Assessment: We begin by discussing your experience with squirrel activity to determine the extent of the infestation.

2. Inspection: Our team thoroughly examines your home to identify entry points and nesting areas.

3. Removal: Depending on the situation, we use methods such as:

   • One-way exclusion tunnels that allow squirrels to exit but not re-enter.

   • Live traps placed in the attic near nesting sites, checked daily per local regulations.

4. Prevention: After removing the squirrels, we perform exclusion work to seal entry points and prevent future infestations.

Protect Your Home with Viking Pest Control

Don’t let squirrels wreak havoc on your property. If you suspect a squirrel infestation, call Viking Pest Control for professional and humane removal services. Our experts have the experience, tools, and knowledge to protect your home and keep it pest-free.

Contact Viking Pest Control today for a free quote and take the first step toward a squirrel-free home!

Flying ants are gearing up to invade New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland in the coming months. These winged pests, also known as "swarmers," will soon take to the skies, mate, and establish new colonies ruled by a single queen. Their arrival means more than just an annoyance—it’s the beginning of a cycle that could lead to serious infestations. Picture your backyard overrun with swarms of flying ants disrupting your peace and threatening your property. The time to act is now.

How Do I Deal with Flying Ants?

Viking Pest Control advises taking proactive measures before millions of swarmers emerge and transform your property into an ant stronghold. Our treatments, safe for families and pets, are designed to halt reproduction and colony formation, keeping your home and yard secure. We also meticulously inspect your home’s exterior to identify and seal potential entry points for ants and other pests.

Swarmers can appear anytime from early spring to late summer. Once a male and female flying ant mate, the male dies, and the female establishes a new colony, shedding her wings to become its queen. Don’t let these pests take root on your property. Call Viking Pest Control today and stop ant problems before they start.

Flying Ants in the Mid-Atlantic including carpenter ants, odorous house ants, and more develop wings for their annual swarming season. Spotting a swarm of these pests hovering over your property is a warning sign—a precursor to potential infestations that can wreak havoc on your home and yard.

Carpenter Ants: A Hidden Danger

Carpenter ants are one of the most destructive ant species in the Mid-Atlantic. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood, but they burrow through it to create nests, which can compromise the structural integrity of your home over time. These ants are often drawn to moisture-damaged wood and can quickly expand their colonies if left unchecked. Viking Pest Control utilizes specialized treatments to target carpenter ant nests, eliminating them at the source and preventing further damage to your property. Our comprehensive approach includes identifying areas of vulnerability and implementing solutions to keep carpenter ants out for good.

Carpenter Ant Control Done Right with Viking Pest Control

Defend your property against invasive swarmers with Viking Pest Control While flying ants in the Mid-Atlantic don’t spread diseases, they can cause significant problems, including structural damage, food contamination, and attracting other pests like birds and rodents. The presence of these pests is more than a nuisance; it’s a threat to your home’s safety and comfort.

Contact Viking Pest Control today to schedule an inspection and learn how we can protect your property from flying ants and other invasive pests. Don’t wait until it’s too late—the best pest control in the Mid-Atlantic is just a call away.

Mice are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night. Find out how this behavior affects mouse control and the best treatment options.

Mice are small, intelligent rodents known for their ability to squeeze through small gaps to make their way indoors. Once they’ve settled inside, they can quickly multiply, creating an infestation that’s difficult to combat alone.
 
Since live mice aren’t often seen by homeowners, even with an active infestation, many have wondered if mice are nocturnal. The answer is yes, and understanding the behaviors of mice and other nocturnal creatures is crucial to finding effective pest control and prevention solutions.
If you see a mouse or other rodent in your home or notice signs of activity such as dropping or gnawing marks, contact Viking Pest Control for safe and effective mice control in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware.

Nighttime Activities of Mice

Mice are at their peak active during the night, specifically at dusk and before dawn. They are social creatures living in communities of other mice, typically hidden away within the walls and other out-of-the-way places around your home. Once mice have established a nest near a known source of food, they rarely venture more than 30 feet away from it.
 
Mice utilize their intelligence to adapt to their environment, as well as their memory to establish trusted routes to food sources. Known for their scavenging nature, mice will consume nearly anything they can find and often eat during the night. Any food left out in the open will attract mice. They prefer to travel along well-defined routes and use their whiskers to feel their way and navigate through the dark. Common pathways traveled can include vertical pipes and wires that run within walls and between floors.
 
Understanding how mice behave and thrive is critical to getting rid of them. Placing traps and bait stations near food sources and along heavily traveled routes, especially along walls is important. Mice will investigate any changes made to their environment, so moving things around will force them to notice changes and establish new routes.

Benefits of SMART Mice Control

While knowing mice and their suspected routes can help, SMART Pest Control from Anticimex is the most effective way to combat mice in your home. Since mice are nocturnal, it can be difficult to discover their preferred pathways and nesting sites. Along with their abilities to quickly adapt to change and breed in large numbers, making headway towards eliminating an infestation can quickly be thwarted if they reestablish themselves in a new location.
 
Anticimex SMART Pest Control works 24/7 – 365 days a year – to digitally track mouse activity around your home, even when no one is awake or around to see or hear it. This consistent, round-the-clock monitoring ensures early detection of mice to stop infestations before they start and relays the location of mice to stop infestations before they start and relocate traps as needed. These traps are a humane solution that’s environmentally friendly and non-toxic for use around children and pets. One of the best parts of SMART technology is that it’s hands-off for the homeowner. The system sends alerts to the control center at Viking Pest Control, notifying our technicians when traps need to be emptied.
 
SMART mice and rodent control in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware is the ideal solution to eliminating current infestations and ongoing mice prevention. This innovative technology uses sensors and traps installed both indoors and out that communicate wirelessly, making it the perfect method to detect mice at any time and place they are active.

Leading Pest Control Provider Elevates Two Key Leaders to Drive Continued and Operational Excellence

 Viking Pest Control, a leader in pest management services in NJ, PA, DE, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland, proudly announces the promotion of James McIntyre to President and Barbara Hess to Vice President of Operations. These leadership appointments highlight Viking's dedication to providing exceptional pest control solutions, with both McIntyre and Hess having built the bulk of their careers at Viking, each contributing 20+ years of expertise to the company.

McIntyre and Hess bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision to their new roles, building on Viking Pest Control's reputation for excellence and customer-focused innovation. Both leaders will focus on enhancing operational efficiency, expanding service offerings, and reinforcing Viking's position as a trusted partner in protecting homes and businesses.

"I am confident that Jim and Barb will further strengthen our business and enhance the exceptional value we provide our customers," said Paul Bergmann, COO of Anticimex North America, "Their promotions underscore our commitment to investing in our team members as a core value. I look forward to collaborating with them in their new roles and seeing how their leadership propels Viking Pest Control into its next chapter of success."

James McIntyre: Leading the Next Phase of Viking Pest Control

McIntyre joined Viking Pest Control in 2005 as a Technician and quickly emerged as a natural leader. Over the years, he has excelled in every operational role, from Technician and Service Manager to Branch Manager and Vice President of Operations. His leadership has fostered a "team-first" culture, driving improvement in employee retention and directly contributing to enhanced service levels and stronger customer loyalty. A firm believer in servant leadership, McIntyre emphasizes the importance of core values and creating a sense of ownership across the company. His approach has united Viking's employees in a shared mission to succeed. As VP of Operations, McIntyre implemented a technician career path, providing a clear roadmap for growth and advancement. He also established a safety committee to prioritize on-the-job safety initiatives. McIntyre takes great pride in his team's accomplishments; with many individuals he has mentored, advancing into leadership roles, receiving industry recognition, and driving the company's ongoing growth and reputation for excellence.

"I'm honored to lead Viking Pest Control and excited to work alongside our talented team to continue delivering top-tier service while leading in sustainability," said McIntyre. "Our employees are the foundation of our success, and my focus will remain on prioritizing the health and safety of our people, customers, and the environment. We'll emphasize continuous training and professional growth by fostering an employee-first culture. I trust my team to make decisions, drive initiatives, and embrace new ideas while celebrating successes and learning from challenges."

Barbara Hess: Driving Technician Excellence and Exceptional Service

Hess began her career with Viking Pest Control in 1998 as a Customer Service Representative and has consistently advanced through the ranks. Most recently, she served as the Branch Manager for Viking's New Jersey West location, where her leadership earned the Branch recognition as a top performer and the distinction of receiving the most positive customer reviews. Hess is eager to apply her strategic expertise on a broader scale to improve Viking's overall operations. In recognition of her significant contributions to the pest management industry, Hess was honored with the prestigious National Pest Management Association Impact Award in 2024, a distinction given to influential women shaping the future of the pest control industry. Hess brings a deep understanding of field operations and is passionate about empowering every branch to thrive. Hess’ leadership philosophy is centered on building employee trust, which she considers essential for long-term success. Hess is committed to driving customer satisfaction, excellence, fostering a positive workplace culture, and ensuring each technician has the resources and support needed to succeed.

"Viking is an incredibly exciting and dynamic company, and I'm thrilled to be part of such a forward-thinking organization," said Hess. "I look forward to collaborating with our passionate and dedicated team across our service areas to continue to provide the highest quality pest management solutions. Whether it's protecting our clients' homes, businesses or communities, our focus will always be on delivering exceptional service, building lasting relationships, and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the company."

Viking Pest Control is a leading provider of pest management services committed to ensuring a healthy and safe living environment for its customers. With a team of highly skilled professionals and a customer-centric approach, the company offers comprehensive pest control solutions tailored to meet individual needs. Viking's dedication to excellence, innovation, and community involvement sets it apart as a trusted industry leader.

For more information about Viking Pest Control, please visit Vikingpest.com.

This article originally appeared on the Viking Voice, Viking's LinkedIn Newsletter. 

Pest control is a necessity for private medical offices. Patients expect a clean, sanitary environment, and nothing is more hazardous to your reputation than an insect or rodent infestation. Pests can spread pathogens, contaminate medical supplies, damage sensitive equipment and electronics, and disrupt daily operations. No matter what your practice area, proactive pest control measures are absolutely essential to maintaining a pest-free environment.

Pests Medical Offices Need to Watch Out For

Bed Bugs – Bed bugs are a frequent pest found at medical facilities. Patients can easily carry them in from outside and spread them onto beds, waiting room furniture, and laundry facilities if your office uses them on-site. This is especially common at medical facilities that handle inpatient care. While not known disease carriers, bed bugs can cause extreme discomfort with their bites leaving painfully itchy welts on the skin that can lead to self-injury and possible infection. Indirect risks of bed bug bites are loss of sleep and increased anxiety.

Ants - The humble ant is one of the most common invaders of medical facilities. Because they are so small, they can sneak into even the tiniest of openings. While not the most dangerous pests, they can still spread diseases and contaminate anything they find edible. Pharoah Ants have been known for their attraction to open wounds and IV units, making them an infection risk for patients if not dealt with.

Flies - Flies can be a major concern for health care facilities. They are known disease spreaders due to their attraction to poorly sanitized places. They can live in garbage, clogged drains, medical waste, and other biological materials. Flies can also bring a halt to planned surgeries.

Cockroaches - Cockroaches as a pervasive pest in places where food is prepared and stored. They are known to cause health problems as well, both from translocating diseases from unsanitary areas and because their feces and shed skins are primary causes of asthma.

Mice - Mice can also be a significant issue. Their urine and feces are well-known contaminants. They are also prone to damaging furniture and chewing on wires. They also destroy paper and cardboard to use for nesting materials.

Other frequent pests we see in medical offices include beetles, spiders, and overwintering pests like stink bugs and cluster flies.

It goes without saying that areas where sensitive procedures are performed and medical samples are collected should be kept pest-free.

Risk Areas

Kitchens and Break Rooms – When pests enter any building it’s generally to find food, water, and shelter. Kitchens and break rooms typically provide all three. Food needs to be carefully handled, disposed of, and cleaned up after to prevent attracting pests. Sinks should be turned off and any leaks stopped for the same reason. Garbage should be disposed of regularly so as not to become infested.

Waiting Rooms – As mentioned above, patients can bring in bed bugs and other pests that can infest your furniture. It’s important to keep this area clean and sanitary. Frequently check chairs, cushions, and other areas where pests can congregate and make sure that any refreshments you may offer are properly disposed of in a timely manner.

Laboratories/Testing rooms - Labs and places where medical tests are conducted need to be watched extra carefully. Contamination is especially dangerous in places where bodily fluids and medical waste are collected and disposed of. These areas are especially prone to fly infestations.

Restrooms – Restrooms need to be watched carefully both due to the presence of water and bodily waste.

Exterior Entry Points – Cracks and holes from the outside are one of the biggest entry points to a medical facility. Mice can squeeze through gaps about the size of a dime, and bugs can get into spaces that are even smaller. These gaps should be sealed or plugged. If your exterior includes any decaying wood, it needs to be replaced. Windows should be weather-stripped, and doors should include sweeps. Make sure outside garbage is kept in properly sealed containers or dumpsters. Avoid propping doors or leaving windows open.

Trash cans and dumpsters around your office can attract pests. It's important to take proactive pest control measures to keep pests out. This is part of an Integrated Pest Management approach utilized by companies like Viking Pest.

Viking Pest Control follows a process known as Integrated Pest Management or IPM for short. IPM isn’t about simply eliminating pest infestations when they occur. It’s also about preventing them from occurring in the first place. One part of that process is exclusion, which amounts to eliminating points of entry and removing the conditions that attract pests.

One benefit offered exclusively by Viking in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland is SMART pest monitoring. SMART uses a variety of state-of-the-art technologies to monitor pest activity when and where no one can be there to see it. SMART devices like the SMART Eye Mini can detect rodent activity 24/7 and report activity to our offices so we can take action to prevent a mouse or rat infestation before it can occur. The SMART Sense mini is a newer device that can report on smaller pests like moths and cockroaches, again, allowing us to act on pest problems early.

SMART devices are sleek and don’t resemble conventional pest control like traps or bait boxes. As a result, you can keep them in your office without tipping off those out of the know that you are protecting your employees and patients from pests. It doesn’t use cameras, so no one needs to be concerned about their privacy. It is also a green, no-impact product which means you don’t need to worry about challenging the sterility of your office with pest control products. In circumstances where the use of product is warranted, we have a variety of green, low-impact options available. Viking is an industry leader in green pest control, being GreenPro certified and receiving the award for the USA’s most sustainable pest control from The Spruce four years running as of 2024.

When you call, Viking’s commercial pest control experts will perform a free risk evaluation to locate pest pressure points and take measures to exclude and monitor potential threats.