Dealing with Seasonal Pests: Strategies for Every Season

1. Seal Entry Points:
   Inspect your home for any cracks, gaps, or openings that pests could use to gain entry. Seal these gaps with caulk or weather stripping to prevent pests from infiltrating your home.
2. Remove Standing Water:
   Pests like mosquitoes thrive in standing water. Eliminate any sources of standing water around your property, such as clogged gutters, birdbaths, or stagnant ponds.
3. Trim Vegetation:
   Keep shrubs, trees, and bushes trimmed and away from your home. Overhanging branches can give pests easy access to your roof, while dense vegetation can serve as harborage for various insects and rodents.
4. Schedule Pest Inspections:
   Consider scheduling a professional pest inspection in the spring to identify any potential pest problems early on. Early detection can help prevent infestations before they become severe.

1. Practice Proper Food Storage:
   Keep food in airtight containers to prevent pests like ants and pantry moths from contaminating your food supply.
2. Maintain a Clean Kitchen:
   Crumbs and spills can attract pests, so keep your kitchen clean and free of food debris. Wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and promptly clean up any spills.
3. Install Screens:
   Install screens on windows and doors to prevent flying insects from entering your home. Repair any damaged screens to ensure they provide effective protection.
4. Consider Natural Repellents:
   Explore natural pest control methods, such as planting pest-repelling herbs like basil and mint around your home or using essential oils like peppermint or citronella to deter pests.

1. Seal Exterior Cracks:
   Inspect the exterior of your home for any cracks or openings that pests could use to enter. Seal these openings with caulk or foam insulation to keep pests out.
2. Clean Out Gutters:
   Clogged gutters can attract pests, such as mosquitoes and rodents, so clean them out regularly to prevent water buildup and debris accumulation.
3. Store Firewood Properly:
   If you use firewood for heating, store it at least 20 feet away from your home and off the ground to deter pests like termites and ants.
4. Schedule Pest Control Treatment:
   Consider scheduling a professional pest control treatment in the fall to create a barrier around your home and prevent pests from entering.

1. Seal Entry Points:
   Inspect your home for any gaps or openings that pests could use to enter. Attention areas where utilities enter your home, such as pipes, vents, and cables.
2. Keep Food Sealed:
   Store food in airtight containers to prevent pests from accessing it. Rodents, in particular, will be attracted to any available food sources during the winter months.
3. Declutter Your Home:
   Pests like rodents and insects thrive in cluttered environments, so take the time to declutter your home and eliminate hiding spots for pests.
4. Monitor for Signs of Pests:
   Look for signs of pest activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or unusual odors. If you suspect a pest problem, take action promptly to prevent it from worsening.