Summertime brings plenty of fun in the sun. Unfortunately, it's also the prime time for critters to emerge in and around your home. Knowing the right pest control practices will reduce the risk of an insect or rodent infestation on your property. Here are some tips for keeping unwanted pests away from your home this summer.  

A Guide to Summer Pest Control

1. Get Rid of Standing Water

Wading pools for little children, sprinkler systems, and rain can unintentionally trigger a mosquito infestation on your property. Mosquitos breed in standing water, and they multiply quickly. Leaving puddles of water around your yard for too long invites these blood-sucking insects to breed. Not only should you empty wadding pools after using them, but you should also look for pooling water in bird baths, lawn toys, rain spouts, and other objects that might contain water. It's also helpful to look for puddles around your outdoor air conditioner and move water dishes for pets indoors. 

2. Clean Your Kitchen

During the summer, ants, roaches, and other insects explore their environment freely, looking for food. Your kitchen can quickly become the prime location for an infestation if those critters find crumbs or spills on the floors, stove, or countertops. Be sure to wipe down surfaces and wash dishes after preparing every meal. You should also sweep the floors daily and mop at least weekly to ensure everything is free of debris that insects could eat. 

3. Handle Food Carefully

Pests are attracted to many of the foods you enjoy at home, such as fruits and vegetables. The smell of overripe fruits will attract fruit flies, which will then feast on any food you leave on the countertop. Fruit flies can quickly set up residence in your home, but getting rid of them is tricky, so it's best to avoid letting fruits and vegetables ripen out in the open when possible. 

You should also be careful with your meat scraps. Flies love decaying food, especially meat. If you must throw meat scraps in the outside garbage, do it when the trash will be picked up within 48 hours. The smell of meat rotting under the summer sun will attract insects and rodents, so it's best to wait and minimize the risk. 

For reliable pest control to eliminate summer critters in Savannah, GA, turn to Cox Termite & Pest Control. This company has over 40 years of experience serving Savannah residents by using the latest industry innovations and rigorous training to provide the best roach, ant, flea, and rodent control services. Their comprehensive services also include bedbug and termite treatments that keep these pests at bay while protecting the environment with EcoSmart products. For more details about their services, visit their website, or call (912) 236-2503 to book a free inspection.