Silverfish or firebrats

6701.      I live in Delta, BC and find these pests mainly in my bathroom. Occasionally, I find them in my kitchen and laundry room. They vary in size from about 1/4 inch to 1 inch. They are dark in color and move very fast. They have 8 legs, 3 feelers in front and 2 feelers in back. What are they? Are they harmful? How do I get rid of them? Darlene Balcome, Delta, BC

 

Number 6701.  The image is too blurry to be certain, but these most likely are silverfish or firebrats, primitive insects in the order Zygentoma. These basically are nuisance pests that seldom cause real harm. Click here for a fact sheet that includes some control suggestions.