The invention provides an apparatus and method for exterminating insects using at least a pair of spaced apart electrodes mounted within or on a supporting member, while preventing electric shock hazards to humans, household pets and animals. The electrodes are spaced apart in either horizontal or vertical planes. Optional capacitance sensor may be employed to selectively activate or deactivate the apparatus. The invention further provides means to maintain effectiveness by using redundant electrode pairs coupled to the same or unique voltage if one pair of electrodes is rendered inoperable due to the presence of an electrocuted insect across it or by providing an automatic collection means using a small vehicle or a notification signal to notify a human or robotic vacuum cleaner that collection is needed.