Long Island's Guide to Pest Prevention This Fall

As the crisp fall air begins to set in and the leaves start to turn, homeowners across the country are preparing for the cooler weather. The thought of being cozied up next to a warm fireplace is delightful for both humans and, unfortunately, pests. Rodents, cockroaches, and spiders are just some of the little critters that might try to sneak indoors when the temperatures drop. EM Pest Control is teaming up with the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) to encourage homeowners to take some simple steps to pest-proof their homes this season and keep those unwanted guests out in the months ahead.

Every fall, pests and rodents start looking for a cozy place to stay warm during the winter, just like we do. Unfortunately, our homes often seem like the perfect winter getaway for them, offering warmth and easy access to food and water. Once they move in, these little critters can cause quite a bit of trouble by contaminating food and spreading germs.

Making your home pest-proof not only keeps it cozy and comfortable but also safeguards your family's health and prevents any potential damage.

• Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect your home’s exterior for any cracks or gaps and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Pay close attention to areas where pipes and utilities enter your home.
• Install Door Sweeps: Ensure that all exterior doors have tight-fitting sweeps or thresholds to block pests from crawling under doors.
• Keep Firewood Away: Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevate it off the ground.
• Maintain Landscaping: Trim back trees and shrubs so they do not touch your home. Overgrown landscaping can provide a bridge for pests to enter your home.
• Inspect and Clean Gutters: Keep gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris to prevent water buildup, which can attract pests.
• Keep basements, attics and crawl spaces well-ventilated and dry. Consider using a dehumidifier in these areas.
• Keep kitchen counters clean, store food in airtight containers and dispose of garbage regularly in sealed receptacles.
• Inspect boxes of decorations, package deliveries and grocery bags for pest damage before bringing them indoors.
• Avoid leaving pets’ food dishes out for long periods of time.
• Contact a licensed pest control professional if an infestation is suspected.

While many pest-proofing measures can be done by homeowners, some situations may require professional assistance. Now is a great time to schedule an inspection with EM Pest Control to inspect your property for areas that may welcome pests into your home.