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It starts innocuously enough. You're winding down for the evening when you notice them: dozens of dark, clumsy winged insects orbiting your lamp like tiny, unwelcome guests. Not quite flies, not quite ants. Flying termites.

Flying termites are the colony's scouts, reproductive swarmers dispatched to find new territory. Their presence indoors, or hovering outside near your foundation, means a colony is nearby and your home could be on their radar. Either way, it's worth acting quickly.

1. Vacuum them up — immediately

Your vacuum cleaner is your first and most effective weapon.…