HOME and business owners in Bolton are being warned to watch out for cockroaches as the heating goes on.

British Prest Control Association (BPCA) have revealed that heating ducts and pipes can be prime spots for cockroaches in the autumn.

The pests can also be found near stoves and sinks, where they can contaminate food, utensils and preparation surfaces as they forage.

They can be vectors of disease, capable of carrying the organisms which cause food poisoning in humans and many other bacteria.

Cockroach control is a difficult task, so preventative measures are an important step in keeping premises pest-free.

Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA Technical Manager, said: “The two most common species of cockroaches are the German and Oriental cockroach.

"They will both feed on almost anything, including refuse, faecal matter and food for human consumption.

"They also require access to water and will be generally found in inaccessible areas, close to water and food.

“Cockroaches are rarely able to survive out of doors in the British climate but thrive in areas where the temperature is more forgiving.

"For Oriental cockroaches, this may be around the heating ducts and boiler rooms of large centrally heated buildings such as hospitals, bakeries, hotels and restaurant kitchens, and blocks of flats.

"When Oriental cockroaches are present, they can sometimes be tracked back to the sewers.

“German cockroaches are smaller than the Oriental cockroach and they cluster around pipes, stoves, the back of refrigerator motors and sinks, especially in humid areas, and will often remain hidden during the day.”

The BPCA advises that all surfaces should be cleaned regularly and bins should be emptied and cleaned out frequently.

Another tip is to clean the top and bottom of the fridge, where food residue can collect.

Sewers should slo be kept in good repair to prevent an infestation.

Dee added: “Control of cockroaches is seldom easy because of the difficulty of getting to the insect.

“For any cockroach infestation, we would always recommend contacting a professional pest control company, preferably a member of the BPCA.

“They are trained in cockroach control and will have access to a range of professional use products which are not available to the public.”

For more information visit bpca.org.uk