Spring Cleaning For A Pest Free Home
You’ve likely tackled the common spring cleaning tasks of cleaning the cabinets, scrubbing the floors, and swapping out your winter clothes for your summer wardrobe. Few people consider pest proofing the house as a spring cleaning priority, however invaders like flies and termites can cause serious threats to property and people alike.
To ensure your home is prepared, check out the tips below.
Ticks typically hide out in tall grass or shrubbery. If you have pets, ticks can easily gain entry into your home by hitching a ride on a furry paw. Ticks pose a serious health threat to humans and animals and are known for transmitting lyme disease. Lessen your chances of bringing ticks into your home by wearing long sleeve shirts and pants outdoors. Also apply insect repellent that contains DEET. Check your body and that of your pets when you re-enter the home. It’s important to remove the tick as soon as it is spotted to reduce the chance of contracting a disease. When removing a tick, be sure to apply the tweezers as close to the skin as possible and leave behind no legs.
Termites swarm in the Spring, when the weather starts to get warmer. Some believe that swarms are linked to the blooming of trees, particularly when buds and flowers appear. During this time, termites are most visible. Reduce humidity and moisture buildup around the home to prevent a termite infestation. Also, store firewood at least 20 feet away from the home. To learn more about termites, read these facts about termites.
You’ve likely seen an ant or fly around your home and thought nothing of it. While these pests seem like nothing more than a nuisance, they can pose a real threat to the property and people. For starters, ants and flies can transmit diseases through food contamination. Be sure to keep your kitchen counters and floors free of crumbs and loose food. Dispose of the trash regularly and keep food sealed in closed containers. Be sure to patch any holes in screens to prevent easy entry.
Spotting a cockroach in your home can be traumatic. What’s worse is where there is one, there is likely more hiding in the cracks. Like most pests, cockroaches are attracted to moisture and food. Be sure to clean the sink of any food debris and eliminate moisture buildup.
If you suspect an infestation of any kind, contact the professionals at Knockout Pest Control.