Have A Holly Jolly Pest-Free Christmas

This is the time of year for chestnuts roasting on an open fire, mistletoe hung where you can see, and Jack Frost nipping at your nose. So, turn on the Christmas songs, string up the lights, set the tree in the window, and put in place all of the many things that make Christmas the most wonderful time of the year. But, while you're at it, consider taking a couple of steps to make this holly jolly season a pest-free season as well.

Before Christmas Tips

• If you're like most people, this is the time of year you're going to get boxes of decorations out of storage. And, if you store your Christmas ornaments, lights, and other items in cardboard boxes, you might just have a guest come for a visit. There are many insects that like to get into stored cardboard boxes, and a few rodents as well. Be aware that bringing a box in from a garage, shed, or outbuilding could bring an unwanted guest into your home. Consider doing a thorough check before bringing any boxes inside.

• Pests can also come into your home on a Christmas tree. If you get a real tree, find out whether or not it came over state lines. Spiders can lay eggs in trees. When those eggs get warmed inside your home, they may hatch into dozens of baby spiders. Just to be safe, give that tree a good shake before you bring it in.

• No holiday is complete without lots of cooking. Make sure you check all of the pantry food packages you purchase at the store, to make sure there are no holes or rips, to prevent introducing unwanted insects to your pantry.

After Christmas

• Once the festivities are done, it will be time to pack everything away. Consider putting stored items in plastic totes. This will keep them safe during the year, and prevent any surprises next year.

• When you're storing things away, take a quick look for nests. This is the time of year when mice are most likely to invade and establish a nest. These nests will look like padded down pieces of insulation, cardboard, and other collected materials.

If you find signs of pest invasion this Christmas season, or you would like help preventing all of the many creatures that can invade your home this time of year, All-American Pest Control is happy to help. Schedule a free home evaluation today. Getting protection for your home and your family might just be the best gift you get this year.