This Halloween, it’s likely you’ll get out your spooky decorations and string the house with spider webs strung with insects. We use insects and spiders as Halloween decor because that’s exactly what they are–spooky. This fall/winter, you don’t want to see any real spiders webbing up your home.

Aside from insects, there are other critters that see your home as their own when the weather gets colder–such as raccoons, mice/rats, squirrels, and sometimes even bats. Typically, these animals are just trying to find a warm, safe place to nest and shelter their family. Your insulated, unused attic appears to be the perfect spot for that.

The most important reason we need to rid our homes of critters is because they carry diseases. We don’t want to create an unhealthy environment for our own families if our homes become cluttered with these diseased critters’ saliva, droppings, or urine. To take control of the situation, first, we must know how to spot the signs of a critter problem.

Most obviously, you will begin to hear signs of movement coming from your ceiling if there are critters residing in your attic. Mice typically get into the areas where your food is stored. If you have a mouse infestation, it’s common you’ll start to see packages of food that appear to have been chewed on, and droppings throughout your home. As soon as you recognize these signs, call pest or wildlife control.

If you want to avoid housing unwanted guests this fall and winter, start taking the necessary precautions before the weather gets too frosty.

This fall, when you rake your leaves, bag them up as quickly as possible. Piles of leaves make a comfy home for bugs. Piles of wood around your house will start to get wet and decay, which has the insects’ name written all over it. Keep these piles as far away from your home as possible.

Now’s the time to clean out your garage/shed. Start to organize things and make sure there aren’t any piles of clutter. Once these areas are cleaned out, it will be much easier for you to scan the area for any bug problems. It will also give them fewer spaces to hide. Check every corner for any signs of a pest problem. Interior and exterior. If they are currently hiding in your garage, they may want to wander into your home as the weather gets colder.

Do a walk around the exterior of your home. Examine the walls and foundation for any cracks or holes, which is where insects will enter your home. Seal any cracks and holes immediately.

Keep in mind: trees and limbs that fall close to your home provide a bridge for critters to access your house. If necessary, trim these branches.

It’s important to note that most damage caused by critters is not covered by your homeowners policies. Prevent damage to avoid out-of-pocket repairs.

You’re not the only one who is starting to get cold this fall. There are critters and pests surrounding your home that are cold as well. Taking these necessary precautions will help you to avoid any damage to your home caused by uninvited guests.

By: KayLynn P.