Warning after houses were broken into while lined up for pests
Homes in Orange County that were treated for pests fell victim to a different kind of intruder. A homeowner tells FOX 35 that burglars broke into the home while it was tented and treated for termites.
ORLANDO, Fla. – Homes in Orange County that were treated for pests fell victim to a different kind of intruder. Two Orange County homeowners say their homes were broken into while they were being gassed for termites.
“I thought they were crazy to go in the house if there was poison in it,” said Cheryl, one of the victims. She asked FOX 35 not to show her face or full name.
Cheryl says her house was tented earlier in the week. Shortly thereafter, she received a call from the company that someone had cut her open. She says she can tell someone broke in on her through a window – but not what they took.
“They went through the bedroom and I wasn’t allowed back in until a day later. I saw all my clothes on the floor – just a mess,” she explained.
This happened on Fairview Avenue. The other house arrived just minutes away on Neuse Avenue. Both are located in neighborhoods off Fairbanks Ave. near winter park.
“Deadly skull and crossbones… that’s a pretty universal meaning, don’t get into it,” said Greg Goetz, the owner of GAG Pest Control.
Goetz wasn’t involved in the fumigations, but gives us an inside look at the process – and the dangers for anyone entering a tent house.
“They entered the apartment with an unknown amount of Vikane gas, which is sulfuryl fluoride — it’s odorless, colorless and tasteless,” Goetz said.
The gasoline is deadly. Therefore, fumigators also fill the house with tear gas to prevent people from entering. Professionals – like firefighters – wear self-contained breathing apparatus to go inside.
But experts say you can get this gear online too.
Criminals take advantage of the fact that nobody is home.
“I was shaking. It’s hard to come home knowing someone has been in your house and searched your belongings,” Cheryl said.
It is still unclear whether the burglar was wearing protective gear or whether he felt nauseous when entering.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is investigating.
