An exterminator is a person that is trained to remove pests from residential or commercial properties. They use a variety of methods, including chemical treatments and traps, to prevent pests from entering or breeding on the premises. Exterminator also provide recommendations to clients about how to prevent future infestations, such as improving sanitation and sealing cracks and gaps in the building.
Many people think that when they have a serious pest problem like a severe termite or rodent infestation, they should call an exterminator to come in and spray everything with industrial-strength chemicals. While this may be effective in the short term, it is not a long-term solution. In fact, the use of chemical-based solutions to eliminate pests often creates more problems than it solves.
The word exterminator derives from the Latin word exterminatus, which means to destroy or drive out. Although the modern definition of this word focuses on the immediate destruction or removal of a pest, the ancient meaning was much more broad. It meant to destroy or exterminate something that was threatening, overrunning, or invading a territory. It was similar to the words extirpate, eradicate, and uproot, which all have the same root in latin as well.
Exterminators use a number of techniques to control pests, such as using poisonous chemicals and traps, or physically removing them from the property. They are often required to work in confined spaces, such as crawlspaces or attics. They must be comfortable working around hazardous chemicals and following strict safety protocols to protect themselves and others. They also need to be able to identify and understand the types of pests they are trying to remove, as well as the damage they can cause.
In general, an exterminator will start by inspecting the property to determine the type and extent of the infestation. They will then develop a plan to treat the pests, which can include using chemical treatments or traps, or removing and repairing damaged areas of the property. Exterminators can also help to prevent pests by recommending ways to improve sanitation, such as keeping food in sealed containers and properly disposing of garbage.
People that choose to become an exterminator are typically independent, stable, and persistent individuals. They enjoy tasks that are tactile, physical, athletic, or mechanical and tend to be practical and thrifty. If you are interested in a career as an exterminator, take our free career test to see if it is a good fit for your personality.
People that need to hire an exterminator often do so when they have a serious pest problem, such as severe cockroach or bed bug infestations, or rodent infestations. They are also used to remove unwanted bees, wasps, or hornets nesting in their home. Exterminators can also be found in commercial settings, such as warehouses or manufacturing plants, where they are responsible for preventing pests from damaging equipment and products.