Is Your Home Hurricane Season Ready?

Is Your Home Hurricane Season Ready?

Predictions for the 2019 Atlantic hurricane season have come in from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). During what they are calling a “near-normal” season, the Southeast region could see 9-15 major storms, 4-8 hurricanes, and 2-4 mega-hurricanes. Storms and heavy rains can lead to an explosion in pest populations after these weather systems are long gone. From clogged gutters to excess moisture in and around your home, your property needs protection from storm damage. Follow these tips to prepare and protect your home in case the weather takes a turn for the worst.

  • Windows on your property should be reinforced before the impending weather makes landfall. While you’re at it, look to also replace old weather-stripping and seal all cracks and crevices. Pests will seek out your home for shelter after being flooded out of their nests and will use these entry points to gain access inside.
  • Once the storm makes its way further inland, your home will be left surrounded by standing water. This is when mosquito populations will thrive as the standing water provides the perfect breeding site. Eliminate all areas of standing water and look to invest in gutter protection to promote proper drainage.
  • Should you experience prolonged power outages, all spoiled food should be removed from the home and stored in trash bins as far from the home as possible. Any waste or clutter can attract flies and rodents, so organizing all trash piles away from the home is crucial.

Once the clouds have cleared and you find that you have an issue with pests post-storm, contact your local, licensed pest control company for an inspection of your home. They can pinpoint areas of damage that can lead to more pest issues down the road.

How Do I Prevent Pests From Taking Over My Home During Hurricane Season?

How Do I Prevent Pests From Taking Over My Home During Hurricane Season?

The Atlantic Hurricane season starts in June and runs through the end of November. The damage of Florence has been felt throughout the southeastern United States and preparations for more potential storms have begun. The rising water and downed trees force pests to seek out shelter, and that often means your home. Here are a few steps you can take to prevent pests from taking refuge in your home during hurricane season:

Invest in Gutter Protection

Take Steps before the Storm Hits

After the Storm

  • Once the storm passes, if your area experiences widespread power outages, you may have the unfortunate luck of dealing with spoiled food. This can attract flies, rodents, and many other pests. Store trash of this nature as far away from the home as possible to cut down on infestations.
  • Looking for any structural damage from water is key as termites will be attracted to the slowly rotting wood. Look to remove and replace any damage done.
  • External damage to the home presents an entrance for wildlife to enter homes for shelter. Look to repairing any of these external issues as quickly as possible.

You and your family’s safety are the number one concern. Consider scheduling a home inspector to come out and look for any other issues you should address in and around your home. Once that’s done, call your local, licensed pest control professional to perform an inspection that could help keep your family safe from pests.

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