Is there anything more terrifying than a flying cockroach? That feeling that this disgusting bug can land anywhere... even on your face! If you're like me and feel an irrational terror when you see one, don't worry, you're not alone. Those bugs are fast, unpredictable, and let's be honest, they're really disgusting!
But what to do when you encounter one of these winged creatures? The natural reaction for many is to step on it. HUGE MISTAKE! I'm going to explain why stepping on a cockroach, flying or not, is one of the worst ideas you can have.
The terror that flies and what you shouldn't do
Imagine the scene: you're calmly at home and suddenly, BAM! You see a cockroach and, to make matters worse, it takes flight! Your heart races, you feel a chill run down your spine, and all you want is for it to disappear. The adrenaline makes you lift your foot and... BAM! You crush it. Victory moment, right? Well, no.
The three reasons why stepping on a cockroach is a disaster
* Explosion of germs and allergens!
Cockroaches are like little buses of germs. They carry bacteria like salmonella, yes, the one that gives you diarrhea, and E. coli on their legs and bodies. When you crush them, you create a kind of 'biological bomb.' All those microscopic bugs and allergens that can cause asthma or allergies fly out everywhere! It's like the bug is telling you: 'You kill me, but I take you to the hospital!' And don't get me started on the disgust of cleaning up that 'mess.'
* Eggs everywhere!
If the cockroach you stepped on was female and, worse yet, was pregnant—yes, it happens!—you could have spread her eggs. Some cockroaches, like the German one, carry their eggs in a super-resistant capsule. If you crush the mother, the capsule may remain intact and the eggs will hatch later. In other words, instead of solving the problem, you multiply it! It's like cutting off one head of the Hydra: two more grow back.
* You attract more unwanted guests!
The smell of a dead cockroach or its internal fluids is like a free dinner for other insects. Ants, other cockroaches, or even mice can be attracted to the feast. So, in your attempt to get rid of one, you may end up inviting the whole family.
So, what do I do with the flying cockroach (or the one that walks)?
Look, I understand the panic. But it's better to take the risk of it flying a bit more and look for a less 'explosive' solution. Here are some ideas:
* Specialized aerosol: Keep one handy. They are quick, and many have a residual effect.
* Cockroach baits: They are great for the long term. They eat it, take it back to the nest, and take care of the rest. Discreet and effective solution!
* Glue traps: They catch the bug without you having to touch or crush it. Then, you simply throw it in the trash.
* Vacuum cleaner: If you have one handy and it's powerful, you can suck it up. Just make sure to empty the contents into a sealed bag and take it out of the house immediately.
So the next time you encounter one of these flying hellions, remember: foot up! A momentary scare is better than a bigger hygiene and health problem. Stay safe from those bugs!