Actual rodents are not as helpful as Remy (Ratatouille) or as friendly as Mickey (Mouse). In truth, rodents are a pest that likes to infiltrate homes, carrying dangerous diseases for humans.
Now that Autumn is here, your home can be the perfect spot for rodents to move in and prepare for winter. These resourceful creatures love a shelter that offers food and water at no additional cost than to share it with some humans. However, for us, sharing our home with rodents is not as desirable. They can be pretty dangerous and disgusting.
Rodents put homes at risk by damaging property and causing electrical fires from chewed wires. Besides, they carry diseases and bacteria such as salmonella, hantavirus, bubonic plague, rat-bite fever, and many other fatal diseases.
You might be thinking, okay, I know they are horrible, but what can I do to keep them away from my home?
Here are some preventative methods you can take to ensure no rodent will set foot in your house:
Block All Entry Points
Rodents, especially mice, can enter a home through the tiniest opening available, and they do not need a lot of space to travel. So, the most important preventative measure you need to make is to block all entry points like holes, cracks, and gaps to eliminate all easy access to your home.
Check your windows, foundation, garage, and attic. If you find any possible access point, seal it up with the right material. Also, consider screening all vents and openings to the chimneys. Install door sweeps on exterior doors for even greater protection.
Eliminate All Food Sources
Rodents are resourceful, so you must take multiple actions to ensure they cannot feed in your home. Steps you can take to eliminate food sources are:
Remove Their Habitats
Do not allow mice or rats the chance to get comfortable by removing any limbs, old cars, or unused appliances on your property. Store any wood or lumber above the ground and away from your home. Keep your attic and basement ventilated and dry to eliminate moisture sites.
Set Traps When Needed
Several traps allow you to catch rodents inside your home and are not dangerous for pets or kids. Set them throughout the year as a preventative method to confirm you have eliminated all access points and caught any possible infestation early on.
Adopt a Pet
Adopting a young active cat or a hunting aficionado dog can be an excellent rodent control for your home. A pet will not only protect your home from these evil little creatures but will also bring happiness and companionship. If an indoor pet is not an option for you, even an owl in your garden can help eliminate unwanted visitors.
At Emtec Pest Control, we are committed to safe and responsible pest control. We understand that your family’s safety is your number one priority, so we make it our priority, too.
If you have any other questions about any of these pests or pest control for your home or business, contact your Oklahoma pest control experts at Emtec Pest Control by calling us or by filling out our online contact form.