American cockroaches are one of the larger and more prevalent species of cockroach, and there are several effective ways to get rid of them.
First, you will want to use a suitable cockroach control product in your home. An application of one of these products will usually provide your household with months of protection against a cockroach invasion.
It is also important that you maintain a clean home so that it will not attract a roach population. Just like all animals, roaches are in constant search of food and water, so if you eliminate these food and water sources you will effectively force the cockroaches to leave.
Never leave open food sources in your home, rather always keep food in tight containers that prevent the smell from emanating from them. Keep your floors and counter tops clean from food crumbs and standing water.
American cockroaches are especially susceptible to a number of pesticides. I personally prefer boric acid powder or diatomaceous earth as both of these products will dehydrate American roaches and kill them quickly.