An empty home is a friendly place for certain pests. So, it’s very important to take precautions so unexpected pests don’t get too comfortable roaming in and around your house when you go out of town.

Frank Meek, entomologist and technical director for Orkin, Inc. said that when you leave, the inactivity of your house invites some pests like ants and roaches to venture from the safety of their hiding places.

Another pest, like fleas may thrive around your home during the summer months. These small, wingless parasites find their way inside on family pets and can lay eggs in carpet, bedding and floor cracks. When you return from vacation, vibrations in the house cause fleas and their eggs to spring into action, looking for new hosts on which to feed.

However, ants, cockroaches and fleas are not the only pests that may take advantage of your absence. Other pests, including crickets, flies, spiders and rodents also enjoy human-free environments, especially when the place provides food and shelter. So, to prevent such invasions, Orkin offers these pre-vacation tips for the homeowners:

1.       Seal any entry points around windows and doorways, such as cracks and unnecessary openings.

2.       Remove any type of food attraction: tightly seal stored foods and pet foods, secure garbage and remove dishes from the sink.

3.       Frequently check your pets for fleas and other parasites. Wash pet bedding and vacuum carpets weekly.

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