5 Ways to Prevent a Fall Rodent Infestation

Rodents infest homes in Northern Utah and Southern Idaho in the fall - RentokilHere in Northern Utah and Southern Idaho, we deal with rodents at all times of the year. However, because we experience such a shift in weather when the seasons change, rodent problems rise in the fall. When temperatures start to drop, rats and mice will make their way inside homes and businesses to seek out food, warmth, and shelter. Because rodents can contaminate surfaces, spread germs, and cause structural damage, it’s extremely important to learn how to keep rats and mice away. The team at Specializes knows how important it is to keep your property and family safe from rodents. We’re here to share our top 5 ways to prevent a rodent infestation.

How Dangerous are Rodents Inside?

Rats and mice can be a lot more destructive than you think. If you’re hearing rustling in the walls or gnawing noises, chances are you may have a rodent problem. Rats and mice will take shelter in the attic, basement, and garage. They also will infest kitchens, laundry rooms, and are highly likely to invade your trash cans if given the chance.

A rat or mouse problem often begins when the rodents get in through your chimney, pipes, air vents, and more. With incisors that never stop growing, their chewing habits can be destructive. They also are known carriers of germs and bacteria that can cause disease. For these reasons, it’s crucial to invest time in rodent prevention.

Tips & Tricks to Prevent Rodents This Fall

Once inside, rats and mice can be difficult to get rid of. That makes it all the more important to know how to keep them out in the first place. Our top ways to prevent a rodent problem include:

  1. Store food properly. Securely store food in tight-fitting containers with lids.
  2. Seal holes around pipes. Use caulk or wire wool to cover up gaps and openings near pipes and other openings.
  3. Cover vents. Install mesh screens on your vents. Also, consider installing screens on doors and windows.
  4. Use tight lids on trash cans. Rodents love to rummage in the garbage! If possible, keep your trash cans sealed and stored.
  5. Protect eaves. Fix any damaged roofing and use wire mesh to seal gaps in your eaves.

Need Rodent Control in Utah?

A rodent infestation is bad news. They are harmful to your health and the integrity of your property. If you’re noticing the beginnings of an infestation, or you want to prevent one, the rodent exterminators at Rentokil can help! Contact us today to learn more.

Need Help with Rodent Prevention?

Avoid These Two Spiders This Fall

Black widows are a dangerous spider in Northern Utah - RentokilSpiders are a common pest throughout the year here in Northern Utah, but they are certainly more common in the late summer and early fall months. Most spiders hatch in the springtime, begin to reproduce in the summer and are at full force by the time August and September roll around. Just like any other pest, spiders will crawl indoors to seek out food, water, and shelter. The good news is that most of these “house” spiders are completely harmless. That said, there are two spiders, in particular, to look out for this fall: the black widow and the brown recluse. The experts at Rentokil are here with expert info on spiders this fall.

Utah Spiders in the Fall

Like any other pest, spiders can get inside through the tiniest of cracks in your home. Broken screens or crevices in your doors and windows often let spiders in. An unkempt yard or lawn will invite spiders to your property. You may also notice more spiders when you have other bugs and insects on your property. Spiders will be more drawn to properties that provide them with shelter and food (other insects) inside the home. Keeping your home clean enough to prevent other bugs will work to prevent spiders, as well.

Black widow vs brown recluse infographic - Rentokil in Northern Utah and Southern IdahoThe Dangers of Black Widows and Brown Recluse Spiders

Most spiders are poisonous in the sense that they contain venom. But most spiders are not capable of biting humans and transmitting this venom. That said, there are two spiders in particular that are of more danger to you and your family:

  1. Black widows
    1. These spiders have a characteristic red hourglass shape on its body.
    2. They build sticky, tangled cobwebs in garages, sheds, and near the ground.
    3. They can bite when they feel threatened.
  2. Brown recluse spiders
    1. Brown recluses have a darker brown hourglass shape on their brown bodies.
    2. They build loose, dome-shaped webs for shelter.
    3. A brown recluse bite is known to be very painful.

Spider Infestations in Your Home

We all have to deal with seeing a spider here or there from time to time. But no one should have to deal with daily sightings or dangerous spiders inside their home. If you need help controlling spiders on your property this fall, the team at Rentokil can help!