Write an article based on this "Treat pets, interiors, and outdoor areas at the same time. Walk around in long, white athletic socks to check for fleas. Apply an additional treatment in 7 to 10 days. Keep outdoor areas clean and well-maintained. Periodically apply an insect growth regulator (IGR). Consult a professional if necessary."
If you have pets, give them a flea bath and get a flea control treatment from the vet that's designed for their species and size. If possible, limit the amount of time your pet spends outside. Vacuum carpets, mop hard floors, clean clothes and bedding in your washer's hot water cycle, and apply an indoor insecticide. If you don't treat all infested areas, fleas from inside or on your pet could just reinfest outdoor areas after you applied insecticide. The best way to check for fleas is to go outside wearing white socks pulled up to your knees. Walk over damp, shady spots and areas your pets frequent, which are most prone to flea infestation. You'll be able to gauge the infestation by the number of fleas you see on the socks. Take your socks off before going back into the house, especially if they're covered with fleas. If necessary, throw them out, spray them with mosquito repellent that contains DEET, or soak them overnight in soapy water. A single treatment is rarely enough to eliminate a flea infestation. You'll need to apply insecticide at least 1 to 2 more times. Schedule an application every 7 to 10 days for up to 8 weeks. Apply indoor pesticides every 14 days. Continue to mow your lawn regularly, collect grass clippings, and rake up leaves and organic debris. Maintaining your yard will remove hospitable environments and keep fleas from breeding. An insect growth regulator is a hormone that disrupts the flea life cycle. Spray an outdoor IGR 3 times a year to prevent infestations. Schedule the first application at the start of your area's flea season. Fleas can pose a threat year-round in most areas, but activity peaks during warmer months. In colder climates, such as Canada and northern portions of the United States, peak season is April or May through November. Peak activity is between February or March and December in milder climates, and lasts year-round in warm climates, such as the southern United States. You might need a professional if you don't want to apply insecticides yourself or can't eliminate the infestation on your own. If you try dealing with it yourself and don't have any luck by 8 weeks, contact a local exterminator. Even if you're dealing with a stubborn infestation, ask your exterminator to use the least toxic products available, especially if you have children or pets.