Helpful Tips for Homeowners
Below are some “Helpful TIPS” for homeowners to
help with the elimination of pests in and around the home through all of the four seasons:
In
the Spring:
- Remove grass, weeds, and leaves from around the foundation
that will provide harborage for different insects and rodents!
- Clean gutters and repair down spouts to reduce harborage
and water sources for insects.
- Clean winter clothing before storing. Moths feed on clothing
where perspiration has accumulated.
- Cut back trees and tree limbs that are within 6’ of
the outside walls or roof. These can become “highways”
for insects and rodents.
- When doing your spring cleaning, don’t neglect the
attic. Even if you do nothing more than move some storage
around to see what it still there!
In the Summer:
- Keep all foods tightly covered, especially grains, sweets,
and fats. Keep your kitchen as clean as possible particularly
in cabinets and around the stove.
- Store pet food in glass or metal jars, and don’t leave
pet food out between feedings.
- Inspect pets frequently for fleas and ticks. Change and
wash pet bedding frequently.
- Use insect repellents on shoes, socks, and pants when you
go outside.
In the Fall:
- Inspect your home’s exterior for entry points such
as seal cracks, crevices, and holes in the foundation.
- Re-caulk windows where the seal is broken and check the
weather stripping on all doors.
- Check all screens at windows and attic ventilation accesses.
- DO NOT store fire wood directly against the foundation wall.
Find a location away from the home and provide clearance underneath
to reduce insect and rodent harborage and provide drainage.
In the Winter:
- Do not store old newspapers, extra cardboard boxes or old
grocery bags in the garage or basement as they offer excellent
hiding places for mice, spiders and insects.
- On the interior, inspect for cracks, crevices, and openings
around windows, doors, and baseboards that will provide excellent
harborage and breeding areas for spiders and insects and rodent
access!
