When it’s the night before Christmas, and you hear a mouse stirring, it can put a damper on your holiday. Unfortunately, winter is one of the most common times for rodent infestations. That’s because these little critters spend the season trying to escape the cold. Unlike some mammals that hibernate, mice and rats stay active all winter. Here are some tips for avoiding these pesky creatures:
Close Off All Entry Points
The best way to prevent rodents is to not let them into your home. Mice can get through the smallest holes due to their unique bone structure, so you must focus on filling any potential gaps. Start by inspecting your home for cracks or gaps in places like your foundation, exterior walls, and beneath windows and doors. Pay extra attention to areas around pipes, vents and doors. Depending on their location, holes can be patched using steel wool or caulk. For doorways, add or repair weather stripping.
Keep Them Out of Your Food
When rodents seek out a place to stay, one of the first things they look for is food. Keep them out of your food by properly storing it and not leaving spills or crumbs. Store food in airtight containers made of glass or metal. Animals can get into cardboard boxes and plastic bags, so remove the temptation. Rodents don’t tend to be picky eaters, so they’re just as likely to go after pet food. Avoid leaving pet food out overnight and store it in rodent-proof containers.
Clean Your Home Regularly
Rodents love a cluttered, messy home with plenty of places to hide and nest. Clean and declutter around the house to eliminate these spots. Keep trash cans tightly sealed inside of your home, and take out the garbage frequently. A messy exterior can also attract pests, so maintain bushes and trees to limit hiding spots and jumping-off points.
Call a Professional Rodent Control Company
If you continue to have issues with rodents despite your best efforts, consider hiring a professional pest control service. Professionals can provide expert advice and treatment options to effectively eliminate rodent infestations. Home remedies may work for a while, but it’s never just one mouse in your house. Remove these uninvited guests with the help of professionals.
Rodents have a way of ruining holiday plans. Command Pest Control, a veteran-owned company with a 20-year history of exceptional customer service, is here to help. We offer rodent control services in the Pompano Beach area. Call us at 954-943-0008 or contact us online to schedule a free inspection.
