Often times we associate infestations of rodents as a winter issue because mice and rats are trying to escape from the cold in Rhode Island and Massachusetts as well as elsewhere in New England. And while this is completely true, it does not mean that rodents are not an issue during the summer months as well. As long as there are resources: food, water, and shelter, rodents will have no problem finding their way into your home this summer and fall.
The biggest threats that rodent infestations pose to homes and families are:
- Contamination of food and surfaces
- Spread of bacteria and diseases
- Structural damage to the home
- Fire hazard from chewing on electrical wires
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways in which you can begin to rodent-proof your home now to avoid having mice and other rodents as house guests any time of the year especially when it does cool down and these potentially damaging pests are even more likely to head indoors.
- Inspect the outside of the home for any cracks, holes, or gaps, and seal them off with caulking.
- Make sure vents are covered with durable mesh.
- Keep doors and windows closed unless they have screens.
- Take the trash out regularly and keep it stored in bins with covers that are not accessible to rodents climbing in.
- Deep clean the kitchen to remove built-up grease, spills, and other food debris. This means behind and under the stove, fridge, and other appliances.
- Clean and inspect the food pantry and all cupboards to be sure that any open food is sealed tightly. Storage containers with locking lids work best!
- Eliminate clutter in the garage and other storage areas including removing old newspapers and cardboard.
Of course, sometimes even our best efforts to keep pests away are not effective. So if you do happen to spot any rodents including mice and rats in your home then please contact Big Blue Bug Solutions right away!
Our experts in rodent control for Providence, Rhode Island, and Shrewsbury, Massachusetts as well as throughout our New England service area will be able to safely and effectively get rid of rodents, taking the worry completely off your shoulders.