Pest Control Tips – Winter Months
Most people tend to forget about pest control during the colder winter months but just because you can't see rodents and pests easily doesn't mean you don't have a problem or you don't have a situation that is encouraging spring pest problems. It is important to check for rodent and pest activity during the winter especially if you live in a warmer climate like South Florida.
Just like people and animals, rodents and insects seek out warmer places to make their nests and homes during cold weather. This means you can expect an increase of ice and rats inside your home so it is important to stay alert to the signs of rodent and insect activity so you can take immediate action. Apart from the fact rodents and insects are a nuisance they also carry diseases including hantavirus and salmonella. Rodents can also chew through your electrical wiring causing circuits to short out, electrical fires and structural damage from gnawing on wood.
When you go out with the dog or play with kids or come home from shopping take a few minutes to walk around your property. Examine the condition of your roof, all walls and your landscaping. Look for signs of rodent activity like droppings, scratch marks and entry holes near the foundation and walls of your home. Identify areas that require repair or areas you need to barricade against rodents or insects.
Look for tree branches that are leaning onto your roof or into walls. Also check fallen branches that may create a path to the foundation or walls of your home. Tree branches make a great pathway into homes for rodents and insects alike. It is easier to spot potential problem areas when branches are bare.
If you use your fireplace during cooler months make sure your woodpile is well away from the house. The moisture in wood stored outdoors creates a perfect environment for breeding and feeding roaches and other insects.
Inside your home you should also look for rodent and insect activity. Rats and mice come in seeking warmth and spiders, roaches and ants continue to be active during the winter months. Make sure all food is stored in sealed containers. Open boxes of food will attract rodents and insects.
If you find any signs of insect activity or droppings inside your home or outside along the perimeter of your home call you pest control provider for immediate treatment. Taking action quickly will save you money in the long run by preventing serious insect or rodent infestations.