As we prepare to celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings, the last thing we want to worry about is an unwelcome guest scurrying through our festivities. Unfortunately, mice and rats are common in Ohio and Southeast Michigan during the summer months, and really throughout the entire year, often seeking food and shelter in our homes. To ensure a pest-free home during your Independence Day celebrations, here are some essential tips on rodent control and keeping mice and rats away.
Tips for Rodent Control
When it comes to keeping mice and rats away in the summer, the same tips we have provided for other times of the year still hold true. We have provided a refresher below for some of the things you can do to ensure you are celebrating your independence from these rodents throughout the summer and the rest of the year.
- Seal Entry Points Rodents can squeeze through the tiniest of openings. We are talking even gaps and cracks that you think may be way too small for anything to get through. Mice can fit through a hole the width of a pencil (1/4 inch or 6 millimeters in diameter). Inspect your home for cracks and holes, especially around windows, doors, and the foundation. Use steel wool, caulk, or weather-stripping to seal these entry points, making it difficult for rodents to get inside.
- Keep Food Sealed Like most pests, mice and rats are always on the hunt for food. Store food in airtight containers, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Regularly clean up crumbs and spills, and make sure garbage cans have tight-fitting lids.
- Maintain a Clean Environment A clutter-free home is less attractive to rodents. Keep your home tidy, and regularly dispose of trash. Pay special attention to areas like basements, attics, and garages where rodents might find shelter. Your car can even make the perfect home for these critters.
- Properly Store Firewood If you have firewood, store it at least 20 feet away from your house and keep it elevated. Piles of wood can be a perfect nesting site for rodents.
- Trim Vegetation Overgrown plants and shrubs can provide hiding spots for rodents and entry points into your home. Keep your yard well-maintained by trimming bushes and mowing the lawn regularly. Ensure that tree branches do not touch or overhang your home, as these can act as bridges for rodents.
- Use Rodent Traps and Baits Setting traps and using rodent baits can help control the rodent population around your home. Place traps in areas where you have noticed rodent activity, such as along walls or near suspected entry points.
- Call in the Professionals If you notice signs of a rodent infestation, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or unusual noises, it’s time to call in the experts. Professional pest control services can provide thorough inspections and effective treatments to ensure your home is rodent-free.
The Ohio Rodent Challenge
Ohio’s warm summers create an ideal environment for mice and rats to thrive. These rodents are not only a nuisance but can also pose health risks by contaminating food and spreading diseases. They can cause significant damage to property by chewing through wires, insulation, and wood.
During the summer months, rodents are particularly active, searching for food and breeding rapidly. It’s essential to be vigilant and take preventative measures to keep your home safe and comfortable for your family and guests this Independence Day and beyond.
Trust Delving Pest Control As you prepare to enjoy your 4th of July celebrations, ensure your home remains a sanctuary from unwelcome pests. For comprehensive pest and rodent control in Northern Ohio and Southeast Michigan, trust Delving Pest Control. Our team of experts provides quality and reliable services to keep your home safe, clean, and pest-free. Contact Delving Pest Control today for all your pest management needs, and celebrate your independence from rodents this summer.