
Thanksgiving is already going to be a little different this year for many households, but many families are still going to try to celebrate in one form or another. With all the challenges this year has presented, you do not need pests at your holiday dinner making things even more difficult. So, whether you are getting together with family via Zoom, or you are having family over for dinner, below are some tips to ensure pests do not ruin your holiday. And if you do need help, don’t hesitate to contact an Austin pest control company for help.
Cover All Food
Regardless of whether you are having an outside Thanksgiving celebration, or you are headed indoors, our San Antonio rodent control experts recommend that you keep food covered at all times. Uncovered food will quickly attract pests such as flies and cockroaches and once they have found a food source, they become extremely difficult to get rid of.
Store Food Properly
It is not only important to cover food while you are preparing and eating, but even more so once you are finished. Pantry pests will quickly make their way into food sources such as cereal, flour, and rice and contaminate anything they come across. Place all food in separate food containers with airtight lids that will keep pests out and infestations at bay.
Remove All Trash Immediately
It is easy to let the mess wait after you have eaten a big meal such as the one served at Thanksgiving. However, it is essential that you clean up as soon as possible, paying particular attention to any garbage that may have piled up during the day. Garbage attracts pests very quickly and if you leave it lying out, you may find you are dealing with an infestation the next day. Tie all garbage securely and place it in a garbage can outside that has a lid so pests cannot make their way inside.
Do Not Forget About the Lawn
Even if you are having Thanksgiving dinner inside, it is still crucial that you maintain your lawn, as pests make their way into homes from outside. The climate in Texas is perfect for pests and if your lawn is not properly maintained, they will turn it into a great home for themselves. Keep the grass short and pull any weeds that could provide a place for pests to hide. Also, rake the leaves and do not leave any standing water in the yard, as it can provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Clean as You Go
Cleaning is not only important when the meal is finished or after everyone has gone home. You should also clean as you cook to eliminate any opportunity for pests. Wash dishes, clean countertops, and wipe down everything as you go. You may think it is the last thing you want to do, but it is easier than dealing with a pest infestation.
Call an Austin Rodent Control Company
While you can try many preventative tactics to prevent pests from making their way into the home, sometimes they are just not enough and pests still manage to make their way inside. If you are dealing with an infestation, do not do it on your own. At Stride Pest Control, our Austin bed bug control experts are here to help. Call us today at (512) 777-1339 to learn more about the treatments we use and how we can get rid of your pests once and for all.