Tips for Preventing Rodent Infestations During Florida Cold Spells

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Jan. 26, 2022 - PRLog -- With the recent cold spells in Southwest Florida, rodent proofing is more important than ever to prevent rats and mice from invading homes. Fort Myers pest control company, Larue Pest Management, is urging residents to be proactive about rodent prevention in their homes.

According to Brandon Fout, Pest Control Supervisor for Larue Pest Management, "Calls regarding rodent activity in homes have doubled since December and haven't slowed down. They reproduce quickly, and can squeeze through spaces as small as a dime."

According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), rodents invade approximately 21 million U.S. homes each winter.

Rodents can cause considerable damage to your property along with health issues. They carry diseases, bacteria and will gnaw through wiring, putting homes at risk for electrical fires.

To recognize a potential rodent infestation, Larue Pest Management offers several common signs residents and businesses should watch for:

• Scratching or scampering sounds
• Droppings
• Chew or gnaw marks on wood, screens, cardboard, etc.
• Musky or rotting odors
• Unusual pet activity

Larue advises homeowners to rodent-proof their homes to stave off invasions now and in the future. To help the public avoid rodent infestation, Larue recommends being proactive by implementing these tips (see infographic):

1. Seal cracks and holes larger than a dime around the perimeter of the home using caulk, steel wool, or a combination of both.
2. Screen dryer vents and openings to chimneys. Fill gaps around the entry points of utility lines, HVAC, and plumbing pipes.
3. Rats are amazing climbers and can scale vertical walls and cross utility wires to enter your home above ground level.
4. Keep shrubbery trimmed back from the house and store firewood at least 20 feet away.
5. Make sure all rubbish is cleaned up and use garbage cans with tight-fitting lids.
6. Store pet food and birdseed in rat-proof containers and keep garage doors shut when not in use.
7. Store all raw or prepared food indoors in tightly sealed containers.
8. Pick fruits and vegetables when ripe so rodents will not feed on them.

Brandon continues, "My mission is to help educate homeowners on ways to be proactive in preventing rodents. Following these tips can help avoid infestations."

Homeowners who are suspicious they may have rodents are advised to call Larue Pest Management. For a limited time, Larue is offering $100 off rodent proofing. For more information, call 239-334-0880.

Larue Pest Management is a locally owned Fort Myers pest control company, providing lawn care, termite protection, and pest control services to residents throughout SW Florida. Our #1 priority is to responsibly protect your health and property by developing smart solutions that are backed by guaranteed results.

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