Winter is upon us, and people are beginning to bring themselves indoors. This season is filled with joy and spent with the ones that we love. Many Americans travel in for their annual visit with family. As you prepare to make your home suitable for the ones that you invite, remember to protect it from the ones that you don’t. As winter sets in this year, you will not be the only one that thinks of getting warm. Little varmints will seek to use your home as their escape from the bitter air. Here are a few ways to help fortify your home from these invaders.
What Do They Want?
Truthfully, these pests are still animals and think instinctually. They want a warm, dry place to sleep, eat, and have babies. Why would they go out in the cold and work for food or space, when you have it all in your home?
- First of all, all food needs to get put away. Rats and mice come into your home, looking primarily for food. They are mainly nocturnal animals, so you likely will not see them while they search, but that does not mean the pests are not present. Keeping food put away in sealed containers and cabinets or refrigerators will be the most significant deterrent.
- Second, rats and mice will look for warm places to sleep. They will use cloth, hair, and paper to build a large nest for themselves and the rest of their pack. While this a more laborious task since these materials are more difficult to manage, removing as much trash as possible and adequately storing any cloth will be a great help.
- Third, putting traps and poisons out can be an excellent assist in rodent control. Make sure to set traps in safe places. They will be better hidden from your children and pets. Poison is a little more complicated. We recommend against putting poison out loosely in your home. Set poisons strategically and monitor them to prevent your loved ones and pets from being harmed. If you need assistance with using poisons and baits, visit our contact page.
(Rat bait box)
What Do They Need?
Rodents such as rats and mice only need one thing to invade your space, and that is a way in. This next phrase may sound like common sense, but the best way to keep unwanted guests out is to stop them from getting in. These creatures are intelligent and will look for any opening they can find. A few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure any crawlspaces are appropriately covered and secured.
- Close up any vents that may be open as this is an easy way into your home.
- Keep garage doors firmly shut. Garages are a very common hideout for all sorts of creatures.
What If I Need More?
Sometimes these critters can be crafty and you may need some backup. Here at Franklin Pest Control, we strive to give you peace of mind in your own home. Visit us at our contact page and let us help you take back your home.