Rodents, spiders or other pests can become a nuisance during the fall season. As cooler weather approaches, small pests and insects will be looking for shelter indoors and small openings in your home can be a gateway for larger infestation issues. Rodents pose a particularly hazardous risk because of the threat of food contamination and bacteria transmission.

Mice and rats can spread diseases such as Salmonella and Hantavirus. Rodent remediation should include the removal of food sources, water, and space that they would need to breed. Other steps that should be taken to avoid a rodent infestation include

• Clean Food/Waste Disposal: Clean and inspect areas of food and trash disposal areas. Pet food or other food scraps can encourage rodent breeding.
• Standing Water: Inspect areas around your home that may be collecting water such as empty pots, yard toys, or pails. Still water can also be a breeding ground for mosquitos too.
• Close Points of Entry: Areas underneath steps, porches and sidewalks provide small openings that rodents can use to enter your home. Seal and close off these areas to prevent an infestation from pests.
• Outdoor Cooking Areas: Outdoor grills, barbeque pits or cooking equipment left outside can attract rodents because of the grease and residue left behind.
• Rodent Remediation Practices: Any signs of rodents in your home or neighborhood should be taken seriously. If you notice signs of rodents entering or leaving your home, find where they are entering and seal off that area immediately. Rodent traps should be used to eradicate any rodents currently in your home and if the issue persists, then a professional should be contacted.