As summer vacation winds down and the back-to-school season kicks in, many parents focus on shopping for school supplies, organizing schedules, and preparing their kids for a new academic year. However, one critical aspect that often gets overlooked during this busy time is pest control. August and September can bring about various pests that invade our homes, posing health risks to our children. Here’s a guide to keeping your home pest-free and safe as the school year begins.

Common Pests You Might See This Time of Year

During the late summer and early fall, several pests become more active. Understanding these pests is the first step in preventing and controlling them.

Ants

Ants are highly active in the warm months and can invade your kitchen in search of food. They are not only a nuisance but can also contaminate food.

Spiders

While most spiders are harmless, some species, such as the black widow or brown recluse, can be dangerous. Spiders often seek shelter indoors as temperatures drop.

Rodents

Mice and rats look for warm places to nest as the weather cools down. They can cause significant damage to your property and pose health risks through their droppings.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs can hitch a ride on your child’s backpack or clothing from school, leading to infestations at home. They are notorious for their itchy bites and can be challenging to eliminate.

Preventing Pests at Home

Taking proactive measures can help prevent pests from invading your home. Here are some effective strategies:

Keep Your Home Clean

Regular Cleaning: Vacuum and sweep floors regularly to remove crumbs and food particles.
Proper Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
Trash Management: Dispose of garbage regularly and keep trash cans tightly sealed.

Seal Entry Points

Inspect and Repair: Check for cracks, gaps, and holes around windows, doors, and the foundation of your home and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
Install Screens: Ensure that windows and doors are fitted with screens to keep pests out.

Maintain Your Yard

Trim Vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed and away from your home’s exterior to reduce hiding spots for pests.
Remove Standing Water: Eliminate any standing water in your yard to prevent mosquito breeding.

Dealing with Pests from School

Kids can unknowingly bring pests home from school, so it’s essential to stay vigilant.

Bed Bugs

Inspect Backpacks and Clothing: Regularly check your child’s backpack and clothing for signs of bed bugs, such as tiny reddish-brown insects or black spots.
Wash Immediately: If you suspect bed bugs, wash and dry clothing and backpacks on high heat to kill any pests.

Lice

Teach Prevention: Educate your children about not sharing hats, combs, or other personal items.
Regular Checks: Conduct regular head checks for lice and nits, especially after sleepovers or school activities.

If you detect an infestation, the best thing to do is identify the pest and call a pest control professional such as Pestmaster. Our expert technicians can create a custom plan to treat the infestation and get your family back on track.

For more information and quotes about treatment, contact Pestmaster.