Silverfish and firebrats belong to a group of insects called bristletails. They are around ½ inch long, wingless, and flat with long antennae in front and three bristles at the rear of their long, tapered bodies. Silverfish are covered with shiny, silver scales; firebrats are dull gray or brown with dark markings.

Silverfish may be found anywhere in the house, but most often appear in damp, cool locations such as bathrooms and kitchens. Firebrats prefer both high humidity and high heat and will most often be found in attics and around furnaces, ovens, and water heaters.

Silverfish and firebrats hide during the day and are most active at night. They are fast runners and move with a side-to-side motion that resembles the way a fish swims. Silverfish and firebrats won't harm people but can be a nuisance because they feed on starchy substances. Their targets can include fabric, paper, books, wallpaper, and starchy foods.

To eliminate a silverfish or firebrat problem, reduce the places they can enter your home by sealing cracks and crevices. In addition, you can remove their food source by throwing away old papers, books, and fabrics. Lowering the humidity in the home will also create a less desirable habitat. For problem infestations, treat your home with an insecticide labeled to control silverfish and firebrats.