Award-Winning Pest Control Company Collaborates with Catholic Charities to Donate Five Bicycles to Somerset County, NJ Families.

Basking Ridge, NJ May 7, 2024 – Viking Pest Control, known for stellar service, sustainability, and custom-tailored pest management solutions, is pleased to announce its recent philanthropic initiative to support families in need. The company incorporated a charity bike-build into its quarterly team-building event. The bicycles are being donated to deserving families in collaboration with Catholic Charities of Somerset County.  

The bike build, held in early May, was a collaborative effort that showcased the power of community spirit and generosity. Viking Pest Control team members, joined by an expert bike mechanic from Lees Bikes, assembled five high-quality bicycles from Bikes for Goodness Sake.  

”We believe in giving back to our community in meaningful ways," said Eric Gunner, Pest Management Professional at Viking Pest Control. "We're thrilled to have collaborated with Bikes for Goodness Sake and Catholic Charities of Somerset County to provide these bicycles. It’s a rewarding way to make a positive impact and spread happiness.” 

"We are incredibly grateful to Viking Pest Control for their dedication to supporting our mission and making a difference in the lives of local families," said Lori Soto, Supervisor III at Catholic Charities of Somerset County. "The bicycles donated through this initiative will provide joy to the children while promoting outdoor activity and strengthening family bonds.” 

The five bicycles and helmets will be distributed to families identified by Catholic Charities of Somerset County, ensuring they reach those who will benefit from this gesture of kindness and support.  

Viking Pest Control is a trusted provider of pest management services, serving residential and commercial clients with integrity and expertise. 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 and was rated among the best in the country by publications including Forbes Home, Better Homes & Gardens, and Real Simple. 

Viking Pest Control, a leading name in pest management, has elevated its commitment to education and technology by donating 30 desktop computers to Boonton High School. The generous contribution, aimed at enhancing students' understanding of computer architecture, was formally handed over in December 2023, in Boonton, NJ.

In Dilek Demirors's technology class, students embarked on an engaging reverse engineering project, a unique opportunity made possible through the generous donation from Viking Pest Control. The students were tasked with disassembling Dell Optiplex desktop computer towers ranging from the 3070 model to the XE3 model, allowing them to delve into the intricacies of computer components.

Dilek Demirors, the technology class instructor, expressed enthusiasm about the project, saying, "My goal with this lesson was to create a teamwork contract, use tools to disassemble a device, and sketch and document their full understanding of how it works. The lesson went well, and the students demonstrated a keen interest in compiling what they learned into a manual and write-up that summarizes the object's purpose, bill of materials, and operation procedure with orthographic and isometric sketches. It was gratifying to see their active participation, and they gained valuable insights. The students learned how to apply the steps of the engineering design process to come up with ideas for how the product or device could be improved for the benefit of the end user.”

The Viking donation opened exciting possibilities for the students. Through this reverse engineering project, they gained hands-on experience with computer architecture and developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The donation aligns with Viking Pest Control's broader mission to support STEM education. By providing the necessary resources for the reverse engineering project, Viking aims to inspire students to consider building their own computers and foster an interest in pursuing careers in STEM fields.

"We believe in investing in the future, and what better way than empowering young minds with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the ever-evolving world of technology," said Eric Gunner, Pest Control Professional at Viking Pest Control.

Boonton High School is particularly significant to Viking as the connection is rooted in their Senior IT Support Specialist, Raul Aguilar, who is a former teacher at Boonton High School. This donation exemplifies Viking's dedication to fostering community connections and promoting education.

"We are thrilled to be a part of Boonton High School's educational journey and are confident that these computers will contribute to the growth and development of the students," added Gunner.

Learn more about Viking's Community and Charitable endeavors on our "In Our Communities" page. 

By Lorne Hanewich

Rats, mice, and other rodents are warm-blooded mammals, just like humans. And like us humans, they also would prefer to live in a nice climate-controlled space safe from the elements. In the tumult of spring storms and showers, many rodents look to be safe from the storm in shelters we build for ourselves. And rats and mice are very, very good at sneaking in. Here are some tips for making sure that they can’t.

Seal Entry Points

When we said mice are very good at sneaking in, we weren’t kidding. Mice can sneak into openings half the diameter of a dime and rats can sneak into openings the size of a nickel. That’s alarmingly small. It's crucial to inspect your home for potential points of entry. Inspect your home for openings around doors, windows, pipes, and vents. Seal these gaps using caulk, steel wool, or metal mesh. By securing these entry points, you significantly reduce the likelihood of rodents moving in.

Store Food Properly

Rodents are always on the prowl for food, especially food they can get to easily. So, it's essential to store food in sealed containers made of durable materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic. Also, keep food packaging off the floor and away from the walls. Rodents are skilled at gnawing through cardboard and thin plastic and can get to food within.

Keep Your Yard Tidy

Trim your lawn and other vegetation around your home and sweep away fallen leaves. Overgrown bushes and piles of leftover leaves can provide rodents with easy cover and potential access to your home.

Declutter

Rodents find hiding places and nesting materials in clutter, making it essential to declutter your living space. Opt to store your belongings in plastic bins with secure lids, and maintain a well-organized attic, basement, and garage, free from unnecessary items. This proactive approach not only removes potential hiding spots for rodents but also enhances your ability to detect signs of an infestation.

Get SMART

SMART pest control technologies can help to detect rodent infestations and nip them in the bud. By tracking rodent activity as it occurs and reporting it to our pest control experts at the home office, SMART devices ensure that rodent infestations are caught early and won’t become a bigger problem.

If you are concerned that you have an infestation, or that you might be at risk of one. Call Viking Pest for a free rodent control estimate in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. 

Viking Pest Control recognized for stellar service, sustainability, and custom-tailored solutions for homes and businesses. 

BASKING RIDGE, NJ, March 12, 2024, Viking Pest Control is honored to be named one of the Top 10 Pest Control Companies in the United States by both Forbes Advisor and The Spruce for the fourth consecutive year.  

Forbes Home released their list of Top 10 Pest Control Companies in the United States, and Viking Pest Control made the list. “As we move towards 2024, we are delighted to rank in the top 10 pest control companies in the US,” says Viking President, Paul Bergmann.  

The Spruce recognized Viking for their outstanding sustainability practices utilizing eco-friendly products that reduce the impact on the environment. 2024 is the third consecutive year Viking has been named Best Pest Control Company for Sustainability by The Spruce.  

Why Choose Viking Pest Control 

QualityPro Certification 

Viking Pest control is a certified member of QualityPro, ensuring exceptional pest control.  Requirements include 

• Criminal background checks  
• Drug-free workplace policy 
• Technicians and employees pass the QualityPro exam 
• Practices proper pesticide handling

Full-Service Pest Control Company 

Not only does Viking offer pest control services for the typical pests such as ants, mice, bed bugs, cockroaches, stink bugs, and termites, they also offer many other services other companies do not offer, such as disinfecting services, spotted lanternfly, SMART Pest Control, and wildlife control.  

SMART Pest Control System 

The SMART pest control system is available for both residential and commercial properties. 

These systems monitor pest activity 24/7 to prevent infestations. SMART offers 24-hour monitoring, peace of mind, and pest infestation prevention, so your home or business stays healthy and pest-free.  

Familiarity With Service Areas 

The technicians at Viking Pest are local to their service area and live and work within their communities.  

Viking Pest is also part of the community, creating and participating in 40+ community outreach events. 

With over 2,000 Google, BBB, and Facebook reviews, Viking prides itself in effective pest management and exceptional customer service.  

Contact Viking Pest Control Today 

Viking Pest offers exceptional service by trained technicians dedicated to solving your pest control problems. 

If you are looking for pest control services or have any questions, contact us today. 

Phone: 800-618-2847 

Email: customerservice@vikingpest.com

Website: www.vikingpest.com 

 Viking Pest Control is proud to have been voted “Top Workplace” and achieved The Top Workplace award in New Jersey by NJ.com for the fourth consecutive year. 

Our team was again proudly awarded the Top Workplace award for 2024. The recognition is based solely on employee feedback gathered anonymously. The confidential survey uniquely measures various drivers that are critical to the success of any organization. 

This award is granted to companies that create a culture where employees feel engaged, appreciated, and fulfilled. Paul Bergmann, President of Viking Pest Control, said, “Earning a Top Workplaces is a badge of honor since it comes from our employees, and we are honored they voted this way. We are proud to share this award with our team and our customers.” 

What sets Viking Pest Control apart from other companies when it comes to a career choice? 

• A working environment that values meaningful work, open-minded supportive managers, and clued-in employees providing transformative solutions for customers. 
• Enforced background checks for all employees and a drug-free working environment to ensure a safe space for all team members. 
• Numerous benefits, including paid vacation time, health coverage, and more.  
• A healthy work atmosphere with opportunities to learn about and adopt new technology and meet new challenges.  
• Diversity – employees feel accepted and valued at Viking Pest Control, regardless of gender or ethnicity. 

 Viking Pest Control has over 40 years of experience in the pest control industry, continually delivering customer service that exceeds industry norms.

Paul Bergmann, President of Viking Pest Control, says, “Creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute is at the heart of our culture. Viking believes a diverse team leads to different individual characteristics and perspectives, integral to company growth. As a result, our employees feel accepted and valued at Viking Pest, which, along with customer satisfaction, is our ultimate success.” 

 Look no further if you are searching for a job in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, or The Eastern Shore of Maryland at a reputable company. Viking team members enjoy extensive training, competitive benefits, and a friendly and supportive work environment. Check out our job openings to learn what positions are currently hiring. Find out what it means to work at one of the Top Places to Work!  

 The company creates effective and efficient pest management solutions for residents and business owners in New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. The company is a QualityPro member, meaning that its customers are sure to receive professional pest management solutions performed by certified and qualified individuals. Viking’s employees are held to high standards. Viking is proud also to have been named Forbes Advisor one of the 10 Best Pest Control Companies for 2024; the Spruce named Viking the Best Pest Control company for Sustainability for 2024 as well.   

 Those interested in joining the Viking Pest Control team can check out open opportunities on our website. 

Viking Subsidiary Last Bite Mosquito & Tick Control Also Honored

On November 16, 2023, Viking Pest was honored with Official Community’s Choice Awards for Best Pest Control Company in Monmouth County, N.J., Ocean County, N.J., and Central Jersey. The gala event was held at iPlay America in Freehold, N.J. Viking team members Ben Snyder, Scott Devrous, Anthony Miscia, and Sean Yunginger were proud to accept the awards on behalf of Viking.

These awards are voted on by members of the Monmouth and Ocean County communities. Last Bite Mosquito & Tick Control, a recent Viking acquisition, also reached the final round of voting, earning recognition as one of the three best pest control companies in Monmouth County.

The Official Community’s Choice Awards are produced by Ventures, a Part of the USA Today Network, and celebrate the best businesses and organizations across the country as determined by residents of the counties they serve. Viking was chosen as the winner after three rounds of voting. Last Bite Mosquito & Tick Control, which was recently acquired by Viking, reached the final round of voting in Monmouth County, claiming a position as one of the three best pest control companies in the region.

“We are very honored to see Viking acknowledged by the people of Monmouth and Ocean Counties,” said Eric Gunner of Viking Pest Control. “Viking’s philosophy has always been to maintain a community-first mindset, no matter how much we grow. While we have grown and expanded over the years, we have always made sure that we never lose our focus as a local pest control company.”

The Official Community Choice Awards come as Viking’s latest honor in 2023. Earlier this year, Viking was recognized as one of the best pest control companies in the country by publications including Forbes Home, The Spruce, Better Homes & Gardens, and Real Simple. Viking was also recognized as one of the best workplaces in New Jersey by NJ.com for the third year in a row. Additionally, Viking was rated Best of Houzz, on the popular home improvement site.

Viking Pest offers exceptional service from expertly trained technicians dedicated to solving your pest problems. If you are looking for pest control services or have any questions, contact us today at 800-618-2847.

NJ-Based Pest Control Company Assists the City With its Spotted Lanternfly Problem. 

Viking Pest Control takes great pleasure in its partnership with the city of Pleasantville, NJ, to assist in their spotted lanternfly management efforts.  

Viking Pest Control has been contracted to treat six public spaces in Pleasantville: two parks – Lincoln Green and New Hope Commons, the JB Smith Playground, the Pleasantville Recreation Center, and two bike path segments – Decatur Avenue to 2nd Avenue, and Doughty Road to Bayview. Viking is collaborating with the city government and its Department of Public Works to combat the invasive and destructive insect species. The Department of Public Works has initiated a plant trimming initiative to ensure the safety of the park, playground, and bike path users. At the same time, Viking has commenced its treatment protocol for dealing with the spotted lanternfly. City Administrator Linda Peyton was instrumental in coordinating this effort between Viking, the Department of Public Works, and the Pleasantville government.  

“We are excited to partner with Viking Pest Control, helping to combat the Spotted Lanternfly in Pleasantville,” says Judy M. Ward, Mayor of Pleasantville, NJ. “We are taking the necessary steps to help improve our beautiful public spaces and the quality of outdoor life for our residents.”   

While the Spotted Lanternfly is not directly harmful to humans, they are highly detrimental to plant life and pose a significant risk to agriculture; in sufficient numbers, Spotted Lanternfly can cause significant, even fatal, damage to plant life. Spotted Lanternfly egg masses resemble patches of mud on tree bark and other surfaces and should be scraped off. They also excrete honeydew, a sweet, sticky liquid that attracts other pests, such as ants and stinging insects, as well as harmful sooty mold presenting additional risk. If a tree is heavily infested, the dropping honeydew makes it appear as if the tree is raining.  

Viking’s Spotted Lanternfly treatment has been recognized by Real Simple magazine as the best in the country. Applications of this treatment are designed to help control and reduce the overpopulation of this invasive pest species while having minimal impact on beneficial plants and wildlife.  

Viking Pest Control is a modern pest control company offering sustainable solutions to pest infestations. The company services a four-state area: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, where it has provided reliable and effective pest control for more than 40 years.

Nothing ruins an enjoyable summer day faster than annoying insects, especially wasps. These pests pose a particular threat as they are aggressive and capable of repeated stings. Stay safe outside by learning what to do if you find a nest on your property.

Types of Wasp Nests Found in PA, NJ, DE, and MD

If you notice a lot of wasps around your home or business, it's a safe bet that there's a nest nearby. Know what you are dealing with by familiarizing yourself with these common types of wasp nests found in the area:

Mud Daubers: Mud daubers reach a size of ½ to 1 inch and don't normally attack humans. They have thin, black bodies with bright markings and a metallic sheen. A unique trait of mud daubers is their nest-building habits. Instead of building large nests together, each insect constructs a small nest out of mud or clay to house themselves and any offspring. The nests look like they are made out of mud pipes and you can often see the individual chambers that each hold an egg. You may find their nests on the sides of buildings.

Paper Wasps: Growing to a size of ¾ to 1 inch, paper wasps are either dark brown or black and have antennae tipped with orange. They construct small nests out of grayish paper-like materials that form hexagon-shaped cells. They place them under the eaves of buildings, in rafters, or in trees and shrubs. This species is less aggressive than other wasps and typically only sting when threatened.

Yellow Jackets: These black and yellow wasps grow to about 1/2 inch. They build spherical nests that appear as though they are wrapped up in gray bandages, with a single hole located on the bottom. The nests can get as large as a basketball. Yellow jackets build their nests in high branches of trees and shrubs, inside the protection of structures, and even underground. They prefer hidden spaces, so stay alert. People discovering Yellow Jacket hives by stepping into them is surprisingly common. If you've seen yellow jackets in the area, tread carefully. 

Hornets: These insects are a little larger than wasps, growing up to 2 inches. They have brown or black bodies with yellow-orange markings. Their hives are large, built using the pulp of chewed-up wood, and placed high off the ground. Hornets don't often sting unless they feel threatened, but they will swarm humans.

If you suspect there's a wasp nest nearby, you can often find it by observing the insects or inspecting your property.

What to Do If You Spot a Wasp Nest in Your Yard

The DIY approach to wasp nest removal is dangerous, so proceed with caution. If you choose to get rid of a wasp nest yourself, dress in layers of tightly woven fabric to protect yourself from stingers. Cover as much skin as possible, including wrapping a scarf or bandana over your face. 

You can apply a spray treatment from afar to keep your distance while killing wasps. Another option is pouring boiling water on the nest to kill the wasps, but this can be dangerous. Whatever you choose, it's best to approach the nest at night and act quickly.

Get Professional Wasp Control from Viking Pest

There are numerous risks to treating wasp nests yourself. Some sprays can discolor roof tiles or siding. In some cases, wasp treatments have been known to melt vinyl siding. Getting stung is a more obvious risk. Unlike bees, wasps can sting repeatedly and some species of wasps are especially aggressive when protecting their nests. This is especially dangerous if you have an allergy. If you haven't been stung before, keep the possibility that you might be allergic in mind.  It's important to note that professional pest control technicians where specialized bee suits to deal with stinging insects. 

While it's possible to remove a wasp nest yourself, it's usually best to call a professional pest control expert, especially if you have a dangerous allergy to wasp stings. Viking Pest Control can handle all your wasp control needs safely and effectively, no matter what type of wasp you are dealing with. Schedule a free wasp control estimate today. 

Viking Pest technicians have seen an unusual increase in springtail activity this summer. But what are springtails? Why are their populations increasing so rapidly? Why does it matter? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this blog.

What are Springtails?

Resembling the common flea in size and shape, springtails are tiny insects around 1/8 inch in length and brown or brownish-white in color. When congregating on decaying leaves, woods, and plants, springtails are difficult to see because of their small size and brown bodies.

The most easily identifiable characteristic of a springtail is its incredible ability to spring quickly from one spot to another.  Springtails jump like grasshoppers, only instead of their legs, springtails launch themselves with a forked appendage attached to their abdomens, It is this distinctive jumping capability that gives springtails their names.  Although most species of springtails have this appendage, some larger springtail species that live deep in the ground do not.

Although springtails play a vital role in ecosystems by decomposing organic material which is used by plants for food, they can occasionally be harmful to plant roots. They can absorb nutrients the plants derive from the soil, causing leaves to yellow or wilt. Once the springtails are removed, the plants can start to recover. 

Springtail infestations in residential and commercial buildings are not harmful to humans or pets. However, they can and will jump on people and pets in an infested building and could eventually infest cupboards and pantries containing food.

Why is Indoor Springtail Control Difficult?

Damp, dark places that encourage mold growth represent the perfect places for springtails to thrive. Springtail infestations usually begin in moist basements, behind appliances, underneath bathroom and kitchen sinks, or anywhere there may be an undetected water leak. Springtails will also invade homes seeking moisture when the environment outside is unusually dry and mold growth is nonexistent. Moreover, springtails are amazingly prolific. There's an old saying that if you spot one cockroach, you've likely got 500 more cockroaches hiding in your house or businesses. You can apply that same saying to springtails!

How to Get Rid of Springtails with Over-the-Counter Products

Buildings infested with springtails almost always have one or more water leaks that are creating a damp, moldy environment preferred by springtails. The following DIY tips for getting rid of springtails may work only if the source of the water leak is found and repaired.

• Spray oxygenated bleach directly on large populations of springtails. Bleach will immediately kill springtails.
• Spray cider vinegar on springtails. This type of vinegar is highly acidic and will quickly burn and kill springtails.
• Lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil repels springtails but does not kill them. Once the source of the moisture in a building has been discovered and fixed, these scented oils may help drive them away permanently. Mix a combination of all three scented oils and spray them where springtails are most active.

Professional Springtail Solutions

While DIY methods may help deal with immediate springtail problems, resolving the overall infestation may take more professional knowhow.

When repairing water leaks, eliminating dampness, and using home remedies fail to rid your home, business, and life of springtails, call the professionals at Viking Pest Control serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey, the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and Delaware home and business owners. We will eliminate your springtail infestation using sustainable treatments that are EPA approved for use in residential and commercial buildings. To schedule a free spingtail quote call 800-618-2847 or request a free estimate from our website.

Ticks and bed bugs might be tiny, but they can cause big problems in our homes and lives. These unwanted guests can turn up out of the blue, and more worryingly, go unnoticed for some time. If you're worried about these pests entering your home, it's important that you can tell the difference between a tick and a bed bug.

In this article, we'll discuss the behavior and physical characteristics of bugs and ticks, the health problems they can cause, and where you might find them. Most importantly, we'll explore how you can eliminate these creatures and create a pest-free environment.

Ticks: Tiny Bloodsuckers, Big Health Risks

Did you know that ticks are part of the arachnid family—the same family as spiders and mites? While you might not mind sharing your home with one or two spiders, living with ticks is another story. These eight-legged, oval-shaped parasites are relentless in their quest to feast on blood and will try to hitch a ride on humans and animals. Once latched on, they will continue to suck the blood of their unwilling and often unsuspecting host until they are removed.

Checking for ticks is important if you live in an area where they are known to be common. Unliked Bed Bugs, you are most likely to find ticks outside. They usually get onto you by your feet and ankles, usually from the tops of tall blades of grass or leaf piles. If you like to spend time in the yard or go on long hikes in green or wooded areas, the likelihood of ticks finding their way onto you increases substantially. 

Ticks are more than just a nuisance; they can present some serious health risks, too. From Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever to tick-borne encephalitis, tick diseases and the dangers they represent should never be ignored.

Bed Bugs: The Sneaky Intruders and Expert Hiders

Now that you know how to identify a tick, let's take a closer look at bed bugs. These stealthy pests can turn a restful night's sleep into a nightmare practically overnight. Unlike ticks, bed bugs are classified as insects. These tiny, brown bugs have evolved over millions of years to become experts at hiding and invading our homes without us realizing it.

In the summer, bed bugs are most likely to find their way into your home via travel. Bed bugs often find their ways into your home through suitcases or other travel bags. They are most likely to bite you, as their name suggests, in your bed while you sleep. Evidence of bed bugs include small agitated welts appearing on your back of tiny spots of blood appear in your mattress. Bed bugs can also be found in places near your bed beyond your mattress including in headboards and nightstands. 

Bed bugs just love a cozy space. After all, it's how they got their name. You'll often find them in mattresses, box springs, and crevices in furnishings. And once you have them, you'll want to get rid of them very quickly. They have adapted well to the modern world, hiding in beds, sofas, clothing and even luggage. They can turn up when you least expect, too. If your kid is in college, for example, make sure they aren't bringing bed bugs home when they come back to visit.

Bed bugs feast on human blood overnight, taking advantage of us as we sleep. If you've been waking up with itchy, red welts on your skin, there's a good chance you have a case of these nocturnal biters. While bed bugs don't transmit diseases, an infestation can cause significant stress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation.

Viking Pest: Your Trusted Partner in Pest Control

At Viking Pest, we know our ticks from our bed bugs and know all the effective ways to prevent and treat an infestation. We tackle pest problems head-on, offering comprehensive solutions and products tailored to your individual needs.

When it comes to tick control, we offer a range of highly effective measures designed to eliminate ticks from your property. From targeted treatments to yard inspections, our services will ensure you can enjoy your outdoor spaces without the fear of becoming a passenger for these disease-ridden pests.

For bed bugs, we use a state-of-the-art bed bug treatment to stay one step ahead of these stealthy and persistent pests. Our skilled technicians will conduct a thorough inspection of the affected areas of your home and put together a customized treatment plan. We'll also give you guidance on preventing a future infestation.

We're proud of the service we offer our customers and the reputation we've built. Viking was rated one of the three best bed bug control companies in the country by Better Homes & Gardens magazine.

Contact us today for a free pest control estimate. Say goodbye to ticks and bed bugs and reclaim your space both indoors and outdoors.