For some parts of the world, summer is quickly arriving along with insects and animals of the damage-to -my-house or risk -to -health variety. What should we be looking for?

Home owners take great pride in their homes. It is our castle and we are king or queen of this realm. It is greatly disturbing to see or hear about a infestation, of some sort of insect or animal in quantities that risk the structure of our home or our health.

The general rule states that where you find one there may be many and best to have this situation thoroughly investigated. Early detection of a infestation will prevent long term damage. It is great news to know that we can do some of our own damage control methods.

Identifying these pests (not our friendly community Hubber, Pest ) can be easily found with prior knowledge of their distinctive signs of presence. Pests of the insect and small animal variety all leave evidence of some sort. Therefore practicing early preventative methods is highly recommended.

A few common household pests and suggestions to solve the problem are as follows ;

– Flies, can find maggots in decaying food or any rotting organic matter. Body fluids can stain surfaces and they carry bacteria. Keep food covered, dispose of garbage immediately. Use environmentally friendly insecticide, repair torn screens and keep a few fly-swatters nearby.

– Silverfish, nocturnal and eat food, paper, adhesives and indicate a moisture problem. Use environmentally friendly insecticide and repair moisture problems maybe a fly-swatter too.

– Wasps, nest in attics or exterior openings. Drip secretions that may stain ceilings. Use environmentally friendly insecticide and remove nest. Risk to health for those with allergies.

– Ants, enjoy food debris. Follow the line of a ant column to locate their nest. Can pour hot water into the nest or environmentally friendly insecticide.

– Woodlice, eat damp wood indicating a moisture problem and destroy in and outdoor plants. Repair moisture problems and use environmentally friendly insecticide on plants and home door thresholds.

– Rodents, especially rats are disease carriers and chew on wires, woodwork, plastic. Damage to these items can post serious safety hazards. Keep food covered, use traps, get a cat or call for a professional.

– Squirrels, chew on wires, plumbing and insulation. Use vent mesh and fillers for any openings near the attic or walls.

Starting with a simple search and locate method at home will ensure the longevity of our home structural integrity, personal health and safety. Regular practice will also bring peace of mind and well being for the family.

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Article(C)2009 Dame Scribe, all rights reserved. Dame Scribe creates articles and posts online. She creates articles on business skills & development, health, science, technology and society and has a strong passion for writing.