What is "fumigation" in pest control?

Fumigation is defined as the process of using gas or vapor to eliminate pests in a confined area. This method involves sealing an environment, such as a building or storage space, and then introducing a gaseous pesticide. The gas penetrates surfaces and reaches pests that might be hidden or otherwise inaccessible after they have been trapped inside the sealed environment. This makes fumigation especially effective against infestations of insects, rodents, and other pests that reside in cracks, crevices, and other hard-to-reach locations.

The use of gas allows for comprehensive coverage, ensuring that even pests in difficult areas are targeted. Proper safety procedures are crucial during fumigation since the chemicals used can be hazardous to humans and pets. Techniques for safely aerating the area and monitoring gas levels are important aspects of this pest control strategy.

Other methods listed, such as applying solids or physical barriers, do not align with the definition of fumigation. Additionally, irrigating pesticides refers to another method of application that is not related to fumigation's gaseous approach. Hence, interference with the confined atmosphere characteristic of fumigation distinctly sets it apart from those alternatives.