Keeping Flies Away
Attention all restaurant owners and managers in Ontario, Canada! If you want to maintain a clean and inviting dining experience for your customers, it’s crucial to address the issue of flies. Flies are not only annoying pests but also pose significant health risks. Let’s delve into the importance of keeping flies away from your restaurant and learn about some common fly species found in Ontario.
Health and Safety Concerns
Flies are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit diseases and contaminate your food. These pesky insects are known to carry various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. When they land on surfaces such as countertops, tables, or food, they can leave behind harmful bacteria from their legs and bodies. This can lead to foodborne illnesses and jeopardize the health and safety of your customers and staff.
Researchers have recently found that flies have the potential to transmit sickness on a greater scale than originally thought. See Global News article “Reality check: Houseflies are loaded with bacteria, but can they make you sick?“.
Negative Customer Experience
Imagine sitting down for a delicious meal only to have your experience disrupted by persistent flies buzzing around your table. Such encounters can be off-putting, leaving a lasting negative impression on your customers. Word-of-mouth travels fast, and customers are more likely to share their negative experiences, which can harm your restaurant’s reputation. Maintaining a fly-free environment ensures a positive dining experience, leading to satisfied customers who are more likely to return and recommend your establishment to others.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some common fly species found in Ontario.
Fly Species in Ontario
House Flies (Musca domestica)
House flies are the most common fly species encountered in restaurants. They are grayish in color with four dark stripes on their thorax. House flies breed in decaying organic matter, such as garbage, rotting food, or animal waste. They are attracted to food odors and can quickly contaminate surfaces and food items.
Fruit Flies (Drosophila spp.)
Fruit flies are tiny insects with a tan to reddish-brown body. They are attracted to ripe fruits, sugary substances, and fermented liquids. Fruit flies can multiply rapidly and infest your restaurant’s kitchen and dining areas if not addressed promptly. They are often found around bar areas, where spilled beverages or overripe fruits can attract them.
Blow Flies (Calliphoridae family)
Blow flies, also known as bluebottles or greenbottles, are metallic blue or green in color. They are attracted to decaying organic matter, including meat, fish, and animal carcasses. Blow flies can pose a significant health risk as they have been known to carry and transmit disease-causing organisms.
Now that we understand the importance of keeping flies away and have identified some common species, let’s explore effective strategies to minimize fly infestations.
Proper Sanitation
Maintain a clean environment by regularly cleaning all surfaces, especially food preparation areas. Dispose of garbage promptly and ensure trash cans have tight-fitting lids. Clean spills and remove any potential food sources that may attract flies.
Regular Inspections
Conduct routine inspections to identify potential breeding grounds or entry points for flies. Seal any gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and walls. Install screens on windows and doors to prevent flies from entering your establishment.
Fly Traps and Deterrents
Utilize fly traps and deterrents strategically throughout your restaurant. Sticky traps or UV light traps can effectively capture flies and reduce their population. You might want to limit this to private areas as some traps can be as ugly as the flies themselves.
Staff Training
Educate your staff about the importance of fly control and proper hygiene practices. Encourage them to report any fly sightings or potential breeding areas immediately.
Sentinel Pest Control
Hire Sentinel Pest Control to establish and maintain a fly free restaurant. Before things get out of control, develop a good relationship with your pest control specialists. Contact Sentinel Pest Control.
Prevention is Key
Remember, prevention is key when it comes to fly control. By implementing these proactive measures, you can ensure a fly-free environment for your restaurant, safeguard the health and satisfaction of your customers, and maintain your reputation as a clean and inviting dining establishment.
“Together, let’s keep those pesky flies away and provide a delightful dining experience for everyone!” – Sentinel Pest Control
