As summer starts to wind down, pests across Ontario are also preparing to wind down and hibernate for the winter.
Summer still has a good month left in the Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma area, but before you know it, the cold weather arrives and those little fury creatures start to look for a warm shelter.
Before you close up your cottage this long weekend, make sure to pest-proof your property from common cottage pests that can saddle you with expensive repairs, long-term infestations and even pose serious health risks when your family and friends return next summer.
National pest control leader Orkin Canada offers some top tips to help keep the pests away:
- Turn off water sources and clean cottage gutters to eliminate potential leaks or water damage that could attract pests.
- Stand mattresses upright. Strip your bedding and lean mattresses against a wall to prevent rodents and other pests from nesting inside of them.
- Replace screens, door sweeps and weather stripping around doors and windows routinely to prevent a pest invasion.
- Throw away food items. Leftovers at the cottage spoil over winter and serve as a delicious attraction for hungry pests.
- Trim trees, shrubs and other foliage away from your cottage’s exterior to limit pest hiding spots and restrict their access into your property.
