Send Unwanted Pests Packing This Summer

The official start to summer is right around the corner, which means our customers and employees alike will soon be heading to their favorite summer destinations. While many of us take precautions to ensure our homes are well lit, locked and protected from intruders, we should be equally concerned about those intruders who could make their way inside on four, six or eight legs and cause significant damage in the process.

To help homeowners avoid a variety of pest problems while away from home and send those unexpected "pesty" houseguests packing this vacation season, we have put together the following pest prevention to-do list.

• Remove or drain sources of standing water in your yard that could be a breeding ground for mosquitoes including birdbaths, kiddie pools and saucers of flowerpots. Additionally, clean out rain gutters to prevent water from standing in the drains.
• Cut tree branches and other plants away from your home to keep insects, especially ants, from using them as a means of transportation inside.
• Discard all garbage prior to leaving for vacation and be sure any last minute trash is placed in well-sealed trash cans so as not to attract houseflies.
• Use airtight containers to store leftover food - especially sweets - in the pantry to prevent ant infestations.
• Pack snacks for your road trip in airtight containers to ensure ants do not travel with you on vacation.
• Seal clothes in large plastic bags within your suitcase and keep them sealed during your hotel stay to prevent beg bugs from hiding in them. When you return home, inspect and vacuum suitcases before bringing them inside and wash all clothing in hot water.

We hope this checklist allows you and your family to better enjoy your vacation together knowing your home is protected from all types of intruders!