What is the proper IPM approach to pest management?

• A. Use pesticides as the first option.
• B. Ignore pest issues.
• C. Only seal entry points and ignore food sources.
• D. Use integrated approach that seals entry points, removes food and water sources, uses non-chemical methods, and reserves pesticides as a last resort with proper licensing.

Answer: (D)

Integrated pest management focuses on preventing problems, monitoring conditions, and using a mix of controls that minimize risk to people and the environment. In a multi-family building, the best approach is to act proactively: seal entry points such as cracks, gaps around doors and pipes, and install screens; remove attractants by cleaning up spills, storing food properly, and keeping trash areas clean; eliminate water sources by fixing leaks and reducing moisture. Use non-chemical methods first—sanitation, traps, and other mechanical or behavioral controls—and regularly monitor for activity, adjusting tactics as needed. Only after these steps should pesticides be considered, and then only with products labeled for indoor use, applied by a licensed professional and in accordance with the label. This combination aligns with IPM by reducing pest pressure safely and effectively, with pesticides reserved as a last resort.