There’s a lot to consider when preparing for the holidays, but one crucial factor that sometimes goes overlooked is pest control. Holiday decorations made of greenery, an abundance of festive desserts, and cold weather can all encourage unwanted houseguests in the form of rodents and roaches. The good news is that these simple tips can help you avoid pests from intruding on your holiday celebrations.

5 Easy Methods of Holiday Pest Control

1. Be Careful What You Bring Indoors

Many homeowners are choosing natural decorations over store-bought products, but if you use greenery pulled from the outdoors to make your garland or wreath, shake it off and inspect it for hidden insects and eggs. Christmas trees should also be examined carefully.

2. Keep Your Holiday Treats Covered

Whether you’re preparing a feast for Thanksgiving or baking cookies for Santa, make sure any food is adequately covered and stored. Insects such as roaches and ants can smell sugars and food from yards away. 

3. Inspect Holiday Décor Pulled From Storage

Rodents such as mice can nest inside hidden places such as those found in garages, basements, and attics. Before you pull out last year’s decorations, inspect the area and boxes for signs of pests, including droppings and gnawed holes. 

4. Store Firewood Away From Your House

If you have a wood-burning furnace or fireplace, it might be tempting to keep your firewood in a stack beside your back door, but don’t do it. Spiders, ants, and roaches will seek shelter in wood piles and could use their proximity to find a way inside your home. You could also inadvertently carry them inside yourself.

5. Use a Pest Control Service

Pest control is a year-round necessity, which is why many companies offer maintenance contracts for seasonal service. An exterminator can root out pests and treat your home and yard in the fall, winter, spring, and summer, targeting problem areas based on the weather and time of year.

If you need help with your pest control during the holidays, you can count on quality service from Central Tennessee Termite & Pest Control in Cookeville, TN. Their exterminators are experienced in preventing infestations of ants, rodents, cockroaches, and bed bugs. Utilizing new techniques and information, they can help your family enjoy your celebrations in peace. Call (931) 526-2033 or visit them online to learn more about their services.