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Simple steps to avoid infestation
When the rains come, pests go on the offence as homes become safe havens for mosquitoes, cockroaches, rats and termites, especially in climates like ours. Rain brings moisture, flooding and damp soil. Such conditions push pests to seek dry shelter, food and safe breeding grounds.
Before we get into the “how”, let us look at the “why” that brings about those unwanted visitors.
As the saying goes, when it rains, it pours and in a tropical country like Malaysia, heavy rains are a norm and with the poor general civic sense, the downpour and clogged drains will lead to stagnant water, which is ideal for mosquito eggs and larvae to thrive.
The moisture and damp soil will then affect the movement of pests into indoor areas for shelter, as rain tends to flush pests from their underground nests into homes, garages or drain systems.
Left unchecked, these pests will not only annoy, but also cause property damage and prove risky to human health. Here is how you can limit the risk in your home during the current Northeast Monsoon season, even when you have many things on your plate.
Quick pest prevention ideas
Start by removing stagnant water. Buckets, plant pots, trays and outdoor containers fill up quickly during the rainy season. Mosquitoes breed in still water, so tipping these out regularly is one of the fastest and most effective ways to cut mosquito numbers around your home.
Clear drains and gutters weekly. Leaves and debris clog up easily during wet weather, causing water to gather. That pooled water attracts pests and can also push them toward the house when drains overflow.Trim the bushes and overgrowth around the house and tidy up the surrounding areas. Overgrown plants, fallen leaves and stacked wood create shelter for pests and give them easy access to your home’s wall fences. A quick weekly tidy-up helps reduce hiding spot.
Make early checking for signs of pests a good habit. Look under sinks, behind appliances and near drainage points. Spotting trails, droppings or damaged wood early will help you deal with the issue while still small and avoid a full-blown infestation, that would demand more intensive action.
Secondary pest control
Seal cracks and gaps along windows, vents, walls and doors. Even small openings allows cockroaches, termites and rats to enter. Spend a few minutes checking the areas that you pass daily like the kitchen, bathrooms and balcony doors and close any obvious gaps with basic sealant which can be readily found online and in hardware stores everywhere.
Store food and waste properly. Use airtight containers for dry goods and leftovers and keep trash bins covered. Food left uncovered overnight – or even during the day – draws pests quickly, especially when humidity rises indoors after rain.
Keep ventilation strong and reduce dampness wherever you can. Damp corners, bathrooms and under-sink areas attract cockroaches and termites. Use fans to move air, wipe down wet surfaces and open windows when possible to dry indoor spaces.
Last but not least, if you see repeated signs like rat droppings, termite mud tunnels or more than usual number of mosquitoes, consider engaging a professional pest control service. They have the tools and expertise to prevent reinfestation and treat deeply hidden nests.
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