Winter Pests Are Back: How Homeowners Can Protect Their Homes This Season
The National Pest Management Association shares pest prevention tips to keep winter pests out.
FAIRFAX, VA (January 21, 2025) –The start of a new year brings new resolutions—but for pests, the goal remains the same: finding warmth, shelter, and food inside homes. With colder weather in full swing, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is urging homeowners to prepare for an influx of rodents, cockroaches, and overwintering pests seeking refuge indoors.
“Rodents, such as mice and rats, and cockroaches are common winter invaders,” explains Jim Fredericks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for NPMA. “Rodents can spread diseases, contaminate food, and cause structural damage by gnawing on electrical wires, while cockroaches can trigger allergies, exacerbate asthma symptoms, and contaminate surfaces.”
To keep pests out this winter, NPMA recommends the following prevention tips:
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Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks and crevices outside the home, especially where utilities and pipes enter, as rodents can squeeze through holes the size of a quarter.
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Eliminate Moisture: Repair leaky faucets and pipes and use dehumidifiers in damp areas like bathrooms or basements to deter pests like cockroaches.
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Proper Food Storage: Make sure food is stored in airtight containers. This includes pet food and bird seed that might be kept in garages or basements.
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Reduce Clutter: Maintain well-organized living and storage areas, placing items in sealed bins off the floor. Regular vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting can also eliminate hiding spots for pests.
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Inspect Packages: Cockroaches can hitch a ride into your home in grocery bags or cardboard boxes. Be sure to inspect items before bringing them indoors.
Even with the best prevention efforts, pests may still find their way indoors. If you notice signs of rodents or cockroaches, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or foul odors, contact a qualified pest control professional to address the problem safely and effectively.
For more information on preventing winter pests or to find a pest control professional near you, visit www.pestworld.org.
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