Keep unwanted guests out of your house this festive season

Mumbai, Dec 23 (UNI) With Christmas and New Year around the corner, people are in a festive mood but they need to be aware that chilling temperatures aggravates the influx of rodents and insects, which seek refuge indoors and feast on their delicious goodies, clothes and beautiful decorations.

As people are busy with spring cleaning, they must know winter weather provides opportunity for pests to flourish. But most of the time we are unaware of those unwanted guests who are neither close nor friendly.

A spokesperson for Pest Control of India (PCI) says,''Pantry Pests like moths, flies, rats and other pests are more eager to taste your cooking than children and might reach those delicacies quicker than your offspring's. These pests are the harbinger of disease-causing bacteria and virus, contaminating food and home.

It is a homeowner's responsibility to be vigilant, in protecting their property and their family's health from the damage and diseases associated with pests. Pest control is not just a seasonal issue, it becomes a year-round activity.'' Further he suggested, ''Some of the precautions that can be taken are: when shopping, purchase sealed packages that have no signs of damage; use pantry items before the expiration date; keep cabinets, pantries and counters clean and free of crumbs; store food in plastic or glass containers with secure lids; store seasonal decor including dried foliage, potpourri and Indian corn in airtight containers during off seasons and unpack these decorations outside prior to displaying them inside the home.

He continued, ''Seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home including entry points for utilities and pipes. Store garbage in sealed containers and dispose of it regularly. Repair rotted roof shingles as some insects are drawn to deteriorating wood and call a qualified pest professional for additional advice and treatment if necessary.'' UNI