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Controlling pests in and around your home

Mice and rats are a major health problem in many parts of the world. They carry bacteria and viruses that can cause disease. They contaminate food and eating surfaces and can cause structural damage to buildings. Commercial pest control Newcastle are able to control the pests crisis inside your establishment.

Rats, mice and other rodents are attracted to food sources, water, shelter and warmth. They can squeeze through very small gaps (13 mm diameter for mice) so you need to seal all holes inside and outside the home. To prevent rats from climbing up the wall, bury chicken wire 100 mm deep in a trench around the building or place stubble or gravel at the base of walls. The best way to control mice is with traps, but you need to be careful where you set them up when there are young children around who could get hurt by them.

Cockroaches are another common household pest that can be difficult to control. Baits in plastic containers (to prevent children getting into them) and poision sprays may help to control them.

Insect or rodent infestations can happen any time of year, and they can be especially problematic in older homes. They can also be difficult to prevent and control. Here are some tips for controlling pests in and around the home:

Preventative measures

Some measures that homeowners can take to prevent pests include sealing cracks and holes on the outside of the house with caulk, screening vents and chimneys, and keeping firewood at least 20 feet from the house.

The best way to keep insects out is to make sure they can’t get inside in the first place. Keep doors closed as much as possible, repair screens if necessary and make sure that windows are fitted tightly in their frames.

Also, use fans instead of air conditioning when possible. Fans don’t cool down a room as effectively as air conditioners do, but they’re much less attractive to bugs than air conditioners are. When it’s necessary to turn on an air conditioner, set it at 78 degrees or above because cooler temperatures attract insects.

Pesticides

Many pesticides are available for purchase at grocery stores, hardware stores and other retail outlets, but these products may not be effective at treating existing pest problems because many contain natural ingredients with little residual effect.

Pests such as ants, cockroaches, flies, fleas, mice and rats can cause health issues for you and your family. They also damage your property and belongings.

There are many things you can do to control pests including:

  • keeping your home clean
  • storing food properly
  • disposing of rubbish correctly
  • sealing holes in doors and windows
  • using flyscreens on doors and windows

Pests in your home can cause you and your family health problems. Some of these are pests such as rodents, flies, cockroaches and bedbugs. Others are plants such as poison ivy. When pests get into your house, they can also cause damage to your home and belongings.

A well-maintained home can help prevent pests from getting inside or at least make them easier to spot so you can get rid of them before they do too much damage.

You should work with a professional pest control expert if you need to get rid of a large infestation of pests or poisonous plants, especially if the infestation is in the walls or foundation of your home. If you live in a condominium or apartment building, your landlord should take care of any large infestations. If that isn’t happening, contact your local public health unit.