• Residential

    Fire Ants

Residential

Fire Ant Control

How to Get Rid of Fire Ants Fast

Anyone who has unwittingly stepped on a red ant mound has painfully learned why they are called “fire ants”. Despite their small size, these pests pack a punch, and a sting or bite will do more than just catch your attention. 

Coming across fire ants can be frightening and you certainly want to handle them with care to avoid a painful bite or sting. If you want to get rid of fire ants quickly, here’s what you need to know.

What Do Fire Ants Look Like?

Fire ants, also known as red imported fire ants, are identified easily by their bright red or yellow coloring. At 5 millimeters long, they’re like walking little pincers. Their colonies are often easily found underneath a large mound of loose dirt. When the mound is disturbed, a river of red quickly flows from underneath.

Are Fire Ants Common in South Georgia and North Florida?

Fire Ants are very prevalent in South Georgia and North Florida, and thrive in any season. mounds can be found just about anywhere. A large colony can damage property, chew electrical wires, and damage HVAC systems. They’ve also been known to establish homes underneath sidewalks and foundations, which can lead to costly structural damage. 

Why Fire Ants Are Dangerous

These pests get their nickname from their notoriously painful bites and stings. Worker ants are incredibly aggressive, and when the colony is under threat hundreds of them will swarm within seconds. The grip of their mandibles is so strong that they can’t be easily shaken off. The result is a frantic human-versus-insect fight and in the end, it’s sometimes difficult to know exactly who won. 

Can Fire Ants Kill You?

Death is incredibly rare, but a person’s reaction to fire ant bites can vary depending on their physiology and the severity of the attack. After the initial sting, reactions can range from a painful bump or skin rash to chest pains and loss of breath. Like bee stings, where some people develop deadly allergic reactions, the same can arise from the venom in fire ant bites. 

How to Prevent Fire Ants

Nobody wants to discover fire ants the hard way. Preventing these pests isn’t always easy, but it’s well worth the effort to avoid a painful encounter. Here are some effective methods to prevent fire ant infestations:

  • Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your surroundings clean and free of food debris. Fire ants are attracted to sugary substances and leftover food, so regularly clean up spills and crumbs, especially in outdoor areas.
  • Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any cracks or gaps in doors, windows, and walls, and seal them properly. Fire ants can enter buildings through tiny openings, so sealing these entry points can help prevent them from gaining access to your home.
  • Trim Vegetation: Keep vegetation around your property well-trimmed and away from structures. Fire ants often build their nests in overgrown vegetation, so maintaining a tidy yard can discourage them from establishing colonies near your home.
  • Perform Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your property for signs of fire ant activity, such as mounds or foraging trails. Early detection can help you address infestations before they become widespread.

 

What to Do If You Have Fire Ants

Discovering fire ants on your property can be alarming, but there are steps you can take to effectively manage the situation. Here’s what to do if you find yourself dealing with a fire ant infestation:

  • Locate and identify fire ant nests on your property. These nests are typically found in mounds of loose soil and can be quite large. Take note of their location to target treatment effectively.
  • Consider using bait products specifically designed to control fire ant populations. These baits are typically applied around the perimeter of your property and are carried back to the colony by worker ants, effectively eliminating the entire nest.
  • Try applying direct treatments to kill fire ants on contact. This may involve using insecticide sprays or dusts labeled for fire ant control. Follow the instructions carefully and take appropriate safety precautions.
  • Monitor your property regularly for signs of recurrence. Fire ants are persistent pests, and new colonies may emerge over time. Address any new infestations promptly to prevent them from spreading.
  • Consider contacting a professional if you’re unable to effectively manage a fire ant infestation on your own or if the problem persists despite your efforts. They can assess the situation and provide targeted treatments to eliminate fire ants from your property.

Remember to exercise caution when dealing with fire ant nests to avoid being stung. Wear protective clothing and approach nests carefully. Avoid disturbing the nest unnecessarily, as this can trigger defensive behavior and result in more aggressive attacks.

Professional Fire Ant Removal

Handling a fire ant problem can be difficult, and the last thing you want is to upset a colony and sustain dozens of stings. That’s where professional assistance can make all the difference. At Dixon Pest Services, we understand the challenges posed by fire ant infestations and offer the easiest, safest, and most effective solution for their removal. Our treatments are:

  • Fast-acting: results in 1-3 days
  • Long-lasting: colonies dormant or dead for 3 months
  • Environmentally responsible
  • Comes with 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Our team of experienced technicians is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and treatments necessary to eradicate fire ants from your property swiftly and efficiently. Don’t let fire ants take over your outdoor spaces—trust Dixon Pest Services to provide reliable fire ant removal services and restore peace of mind.

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Fire Ants in Thomasville, GA

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