How can a year feel so long and also go by so quickly? One thing that always helps pick up the spirit is holiday decorations. But before you drag in your holiday decorations make sure you know the 6 tips of holiday pest-proofing. Stored away and left undisrupted, your decorations may have been home to critters. As you pull down boxes of ornaments from the attic or dig out bins of wrapping paper from the basement, be on the look out for signs of mice, spiders, and other insects.
Holiday Pest Proofing Before Festivities
When temperatures drop, pests like cockroaches, spiders, mice and rats look for warm, dry places with ample food to hunker down, making our cozy homes exceedingly attractive. Attics and basements are the most common areas for pests because they’re usually where we don’t spend a whole lot of time when we’re at home. They prefer to be undisturbed until they get hungry and venture into those more frequently used spaces where we spend our time. Pests can spread diseases to humans and pets, and also pose serious property risks to homeowners, making prevention paramount to keeping a healthy home.
6 Key Tips to Pest Proofing This Holiday Season
“Many people don’t realize pests remain active throughout winter, mainly inside our own homes,” said Ryan Berning, Branch Manager for Franklin Pest Solutions Lafayette. “Homeowners need to make pest-proofing just as much of a priority in winter as they do in summer, and a few simple chores around the house can go a long way in preventing a dangerous infestation.”
Avoid pests taking up residence this winter, the pros at Franklin Pest Solutions recommend following these pest-proofing tips from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA):
- Seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home, including where utilities enter.
- Replace loose mortar around the basement foundation and worn weather stripping around windows.
- Screen vents to chimneys and repair damaged screens.
- Maintain well-organized storage areas, placing items in sealed plastic bins off of the floor.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet from the home on a raised cement structure.
- Keep branches and shrubbery trimmed away from the home.
Happy Pest Free Holidays!
From our family to yours, we hope you have a wonderful holiday season filled with laughter, smiles, and so much fun! And remember we’re here for you if you encounter any unexpected pest issues this winter! Stay warm!
Your Friends at Franklin Pest Solutions
