Rats and mice are not just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage to your home and pose health risks to your family. If you live in Garner, NC, you’re not immune to these pests, especially as temperatures drop and rodents start searching for warmth. Here are some essential steps you can take to protect your home from these unwanted guests:
Why You Should Be Concerned
Rodents are known to chew through wires, which can lead to electrical issues and even fires. They also contaminate food, leave droppings in your home, and carry diseases such as salmonella and hantavirus. For these reasons, it’s important to address any rodent issue before it gets out of hand.
The longer rodents stay in your home, the greater the risk. Rodents can chew through insulation, wooden beams, and even drywall. Their constant gnawing is not just annoying but potentially dangerous. Damaged wiring from rodents is a leading cause of house fires, and the presence of rodent droppings can contaminate surfaces throughout your home.
Steps to Protect Your Home
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect the outside of your home for holes or cracks, especially around the foundation, windows, and doors. Rodents can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so seal any gaps you find using caulk, steel wool, or other rodent-proof materials.
- Remove Food Sources: Rats and mice are constantly on the lookout for food. Store food in airtight containers, clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Don’t forget to secure your trash cans as well—outdoor garbage can be a major attraction for rodents.
- Keep Your Yard Tidy: Rodents are often attracted to overgrown yards, which provide them with hiding places and easy access to your home. Keep bushes and trees trimmed, and make sure firewood is stored well away from your home.
- Use Rodent-Proof Containers: If you store pet food, birdseed, or other supplies in your garage or basement, use rodent-proof containers to prevent rats or mice from finding an easy meal. Rodents will chew through cardboard and plastic, so choose heavy-duty containers with secure lids.
- Watch for Warning Signs: If you notice signs of rodents—such as droppings, gnawed wires, or scratching noises in the walls—it’s time to take action. The sooner you address a rodent problem, the easier it is to eliminate.
Know the Warning Signs
If you suspect a rodent has entered your home, it’s important to take action quickly. Common signs of a rodent infestation include:
- Droppings, particularly in food storage areas or along walls
- Chewing marks on wires, wood, or insulation
- Scratching noises, especially at night
- A strong, musty odor that can indicate the presence of rodents
When to Call a Professional
While you can take many steps on your own to protect your home, sometimes an infestation requires professional intervention. If you notice signs of rodents or are unable to keep them out, it’s best to call a pest control expert. They can inspect your home, address the problem, and provide ongoing prevention tips.
By following these tips, you can protect your home from the damage and health risks associated with rats and mice. For homeowners in Garner, NC, staying vigilant and taking preventive measures will help keep these pests out of your home for good.