Not only do rodents like mice and rats bring damage to your property, but they can also pose serious health hazards to you and others. They are known to be carriers of diseases and bacteria, causing a host of illnesses and allergies as well. At the first signs of their presence, it’s essential to call for pest control services right away before they run rampant.

3 Effective Ways to Avoid Rodent Infestations

1. Seal Possible Entry Points

The critical step in keeping your home rodent-free is preventing them from gaining entry in the first place. Give the exteriors a once-over, focusing on potential areas for entry like the roof, foundation, windows, and doors. Rodents can easily go through cracks and gaps, no matter how small the holes are. Use wire mesh or steel wool to block entry points on walls and the foundation. Install door sweeps or metal kick plates and plug any holes with caulk.

Make sure that chimneys are capped and vents are screened as well. Don’t forget to inspect the wire lines and plumbing pipes going into your house—those minuscule openings can serve as access points for rodents.

2. Keep Your Property Clean & Clear

Your yard can be an ideal nesting site for rodents, amidst overgrown shrubbery, rubbish, and woodpiles. Branches that hang over your roof give mice access to your home. Keep your outdoor area pest-free by trimming trees periodically. The same goes for your interiors. Take the time to clear out the attic and basement, keeping them dry and adequately ventilated. In the kitchen, refrain from leaving unwashed utensils, pots, and dishes in the sink—be sure to clean every surface when you’re done for the day.

Keep your trash bins sealed tight to prevent rodents from rummaging through your garbage for food. If you have pets, avoid leaving out their food and water overnight and immediately clean up after them—leftovers are like feasts for rodents. Make sure your pet’s food is stored in airtight containers to avoid contamination. Maintain a habit of cleanliness in your home, inside and out, to keep out rodents effectively.

3. Work With a Professional

When you suspect rodents are already inside, call for pest control instead of attempting removal on your own. Setting up traps may sometimes bring more harm than good, especially if you have kids or pets. Rather than risk it, have a pest control expert take stock of the situation and recommend solutions for the infestation. If the issue is widespread, it will often take more than one visit to remedy it.

 

To avert destructive rodent infestations on your property, trust the professionals at Copter Pest Control. Helping homes and businesses throughout Enterprise, AL, they have provided effective pest control solutions to eliminate bed bugs, termites, ants, and other infestations since 1959. Call (334) 347-2430 or request a quote online.