The holiday season brings excitement with festive office parties and family gatherings, but it can also bring unwelcome visitors. As temperatures drop, pests like rodents and cockroaches seek warmth and food inside businesses and homes.
No matter where you’re celebrating, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is urging everyone to act now and offering quick tips to keep these uninvited guests from crashing your holiday plans.
To prevent rodents and cockroaches from sneaking inside:
- Inspect and seal entry points: Look for and seal any gaps or cracks around the exterior of your home or business, especially where utilities and pipes enter.
- Declutter storage areas: Tidy up basements, attics, and garages, and elevate stored boxes to reduce potential nesting sites.
- Store firewood properly: Where applicable, keep firewood at least 20 feet from your home or building.
Protect your pantry from holiday ingredient invaders:
- Use airtight containers: Transfer baking items and dry goods into airtight glass or thick plastic containers.
- Inspect before you buy: Check packages for damage at the store, and examine bags and boxes again before bringing groceries inside.
- Practice good kitchen hygiene: Wipe up spills immediately, sweep up crumbs regularly, and take out the trash frequently to eliminate food sources.
“These simple steps can make a big difference in keeping pests out,” said Dr. Jim Fredericks, board-certified entomologist and SVP of public affairs for the NPMA. For extra peace of mind, he also recommends contacting a licensed pest control professional for an expert inspection.
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