Leave Winter Pests Out in the Cold
Cowleys Pest Services and the National Pest Management Association share tips to prevent pest infestations in your home this winter
When temperatures drop, pests like cockroaches, spiders, mice, and rats look for warm, dry places with ample food to hunker down, making cozy homes exceedingly attractive. Pests can spread dangerous diseases to humans and even their pets! Additionally, these invading pests pose serious property risks to homeowners, making prevention paramount to keeping a healthy home. With help from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), Cowleys Pest Services is encouraging homeowners to take the following precautions that can help keep unwanted invaders out this season.
“Many people don’t realize pests remain active throughout winter, mainly inside our own homes,” said Bill Cowley, Co-Owner of Cowley Pest Services.“Homeowners need to make pest-proofing just as much of a priority in winter as they do in summer. A few simple chores around the house can go a long way in preventing a dangerous infestation.”
To avoid having pests take up residence this winter, Cowley Pest Services recommends following these pest-proofing tips from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA):
- Seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home, including where utilities enter.
- Replace loose mortar around the basement foundation and worn weather stripping around windows.
- Screen vents to chimneys and repair damaged screens.
- Maintain well-organized storage areas, placing items in sealed plastic bins off of the floor.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet from the home on a raised cement structure.
- Keep branches and shrubbery trimmed away from the home.