Spring is the active season for bugs and critters, so it’s important to take steps to protect your home from unwanted guests. Here are some tips to help you secure your space:
- Keep your home clean: Regularly wipe down surfaces with disinfectants to avoid attracting pests.
- Proper trash storage: Always bag your trash and place it in Recology-approved plastic containers for proper disposal. Avoid placing loose trash in bins, as it can spill out onto the streets on collection days.
- Remove food sources: Keep food sources away from the exterior of your home to discourage pests.
- Don’t store items against your home’s exterior: This can create hiding spots for critters and insects.
- Maintain landscaping: Trim plants, bushes and tree limbs back from your home to reduce access for pests.
- No bird feeders: The IHCA prohibits bird feeders in yards, as they create a consistent food source that attracts critters and insects.
- Eliminate standing water: Deal with any standing water around your home immediately to prevent breeding grounds for insects.
Insects like ants, spiders and roaches require different methods to keep them at bay, while critters such as mice, raccoons, birds and possums can cause bigger problems. If you’re dealing with these issues, it may be necessary to hire an exterminator to set traps, apply baits or use sprays.
Don’t delay in addressing any pest issues! Procrastinating could lead to more damage and higher costs for mitigation.
Sarah Hoey is the IHCA Executive Director.
