“Simply inspecting a house’s exterior on a regular basis will prevent a lot of infestation problems,” says Richard Estrada, president of ATCO Pest Control in Novato. “Walk around and identify any openings that rodents or insects could use to get inside, and make sure no trees or bushes touch the house or allow pests to access the roof.”
Often, simple fixes will avert most pest problems, and prevention is easier and less expensive than eradicating an infestation once it has occurred. Consider the following preventive tips:
• Use fences and implement traps, lights and noisemakers as the first line of defense in keeping pests out of your home.
• Permanently seal small entrance holes with caulking or steel wool to prevent rodents and insects from entering your home.
• Ensure doors and windows are tightly sealed and screened. This will also help with your energy bill.
• Store all dry goods (including pet food) in tightly sealed containers. Store fruit in hanging baskets.
• Make sure decks, porches and crawlspaces have good ventilation to prevent mildew and termites.
• Make sure your home is cleaned regularly. Discard food scraps in well-sealed garbage cans or dispose of them using composting methods. Keep clutter to a minimum.
If you’re ecologically conscious, choose a pest control company that uses environmentally-friendly products and methods. “Hire a firm that understands how to control and eradicate pests from a Green standpoint,” says Mr. Estrada. “Look for a company that uses a minimal amount of chemical pesticides and implements non-chemical pest control methods, like vacuum and steam.”
