As it gets colder, it’s no surprise furry critters will want to seek refuge in preparation for the winter months ahead. However, rats, mice, and other rodents can bring disease, chew through your electrical wiring, and cause other issues that wreak havoc on your home. Great Southern Exterminating Service in Midway, GA, has spent more than 20 years helping homeowners with pest control and suggests the following tips to avoid a rodent problem this fall.

How to Stop a Rodent Problem in Its Tracks

1. Seal Possible Entryways

Rodents are able to sneak through even the smallest holes and cracks in your foundation. That’s why it’s important to seal any possible entryways where furry critters can find their way through. Check both the interior and exterior of your home for any vulnerable areas, and use drywall or caulk to seal the areas thoroughly. If you see electrical wiring or other debris that has been chewed through, contact your exterminator right away.

2. Remove Leaves, Shrubbery, & Tree Trimmings 

In the autumn, leaves, shrubbery, and tree trimmings are likely to pile up around your home. However, these are also the perfect places for rats and other rodents to stay warm, nest, and procreate. Therefore, it’s a good idea to move these as far away from your home as possible. With no warm areas to nest in and no way to enter your home, rodents will most likely stay away.

3. Get Rid of Indoor & Outdoor Food Sources

Rodents have a great sense of smell, and one of the main causes of any serious rodent problem is readily available sources of food. Indoor sources can be anything from open cans to cartons, and outdoor sources can be compost piles, open trash cans, or loose trash bags. Make sure every possible option for rodent dining is tightly sealed. One tip is to use odor-blocking bags and seals to ensure rodents and other small animals won’t be attracted to your trash.

According to research, 24% of homeowners report having a rodent problem each winter, which is why it’s important to do everything you can get a handle on pest control this autumn. For more information on how an exterminator can help you with any pest you may have in and around your home, call Great Southern Exterminating Service at (912) 876-5010. Visit them online to learn more.