Preventing pests before a hurricane

As we know in North Carolina, storms and hurricanes are known to cause significant damage to communities, properties, and homes. Ahead of any potential severe weather event, Pestech of Greenville encourages everyone to make sure they are prepared in various ways. The Eastern North Carolina region is prone to heavy rain, wind, storm surge, flooding, and much more during hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30 of each year.

​In addition to having an emergency kit ready and being knowledgeable about an evacuation route, property owners should also develop a plan for getting their homes and businesses ready. Our pest control experts say during severe weather events and natural disasters, it is common to see a rise in pest and rodent problems. There are many reasons why, including:

• Downed trees force pests from their homes
• Flooding and standing water force pests to seek higher ground
• Windy and soggy conditions force pests to find a drier environment

As a way to prevent pests from seeking shelter in your home, garage, shed, etc., here are three simple ways that you can protect your property before a storm:

1. Contact Pestech of Greenville

​Our fully licensed integrated pest control team can conduct a full interior and exterior survey of your house or other property. With a thorough inspection, our technicians can point out any problems or issues that need to be addressed. In the past, our specialists have pointed out structural damage that could worsen with a storm, cracks that can allow pests to enter, and holes where moisture can seep in. Our team is also knowledgeable about identifying current pest issues including ants, termites, and other wood destroying insects. 

No matter your pest problem, Pestech of Greenville, Inc. is here to help. Our experts can assist in your various pest management needs. Give us a call at 252-353-4760 for a free estimate. Your East Coast pest management professionals are honored to serve you.

2. Conduct Routine Home Maintenance

​Throughout the year, we encourage homeowners to conduct routine maintenance on their homes regularly. During hurricane season or ahead of a severe weather event, it turns into a necessity. Mosquitoes are known to breed in standing water, which means that they are extremely common after storms and wet weather. Be sure to dump and turn over items on your property like buckets, pots, lids, grill covers, water bowls, and birdbaths. In the event of an approaching hurricane or storm with strong winds, it’s a good idea to clear your entire yard. So rather than just dumping and turning those items, you’ll want to remove them and place them somewhere safe indoors. In addition, remember to clean your gutters. Be sure they are cleared of leaves and debris which may harbor insects.

3. Remove Trash From Property

​Along with routine home maintenance, residents should remove trash and garbage from the outside premise. Whether that means moving them to a safe spot in your garage or dumping them at a waste collection site, homeowners should have a plan. In the event of a storm that topples a trash can or trash bags outdoors, pests and rodents are likely to appear. Food remnants attract insects like flies and rodents like mice, rats, and raccoons. Once these pests discover a place to get their next meal, they won’t leave easily. 

After the storm, be sure to discard additional trash quickly. The same goes for potentially spoiled food in the event of a power outage. Typically, local public works employees prioritize trash removal after a severe weather event so be sure to get rid of it as soon as possible.  Click here to read our blog about preventing pests after a natural disaster.

If you’d like additional information about preparing your home, property, and family for hurricanes, click here to download the 2020 Hurricane Guide from the North Carolina Department of Emergency Management.