Rodents are unwelcome in almost any home. They are tough to keep outside, and even tougher to get outside once they have infiltrated your living space. One of the most annoying occurrences is when the critters find a way inside, however, no one is home to do anything about it. Taking steps before leaving for a vacation, business trip or whatever other endeavors will have you absent for an extended period is crucial to rodent prevention. Here are some ways you can keep rodents away while out of town.
Patch Up Those Holes
An easily identifiable holes or gaps you have in your foundation, or even anywhere around the home that allows access from the outdoors, should be covered up before departure. Steel wool, bricks, caulk and other amenities can be used to seal things up. Steel wool or brick may not be a long term solution, however, they should help keep your home rodent-free while you are away.
Thorough Home Cleaning
A well-known fact about mice, rats and other critters is that they love to set up shop in dirty areas. Large amounts of food residue and dirt, especially in dark areas, may as well serve as an invitation for rodents. Before departure, make sure you get to as many nooks and crannies in the house as possible and sweep them out. Make sure to get outdoors as well, and move any firewood or branches away from the home.
Prevent With Scent
There are several scents that will keep rodents away, and many of them may already be available to you at home. Mothballs, dryer sheets and even tea tree oil are just a few items you can use that will emit a smell unkind to the invaders. There’s no better time to fill up the house with different scents than when you are away.
Put Food Away
As mentioned, rodents love making their way towards any food available to them, especially grains. Before leaving, make sure to properly store and food that may be left out on a day-to-day basis. This will make your home that much less appetizing to rodents. In addition, keep pet food in mind when storing food.
Traps
This one may seem obvious, but it is necessary. No matter how many pre measures you take before leaving, odds are at least a couple rodents will make their way indoors. No need to panic. Setting up traps, whether they are just glue traps or poison traps, will help limit the dame the rodents will do once inside. Simply dispose of the rodents and traps when you return home.
Contact Us
Still worried about a rodent infestation while away? For a group of people you can trust, contact Hart Pest Control today so you can enjoy your vacation or trip stress-free.