Storms and hurricanes can bring about devastation to Phoenix, Arizona homes and all over the country – especially when you consider this area can be impacted by tropical cyclones. While you want to protect your home and yard against the high winds and rains that come with summer storms, such as reinforcing windows, you also want to guard your property against the risk of pests.

That’s because downed trees and standing water force insects and other pests to seek safe shelter and higher ground, and that means they’ll try to get into your house. There is always a spike in pest populations following a major storm, so heed these tips to prevent this from happening to you. Contact trusted Phoneix, Mesa and Scottsdale pest control technicians if you notice an infestation after a storm.

Do an Inspection

Before the storm rolls in, perform an interior and exterior inspection of your house to see if there are any structural issues that could be made worse by the impending storm. Seal all cracks with a silicone-based caulk, wipe up and fix any existing water damage, and make sure your downspouts are properly sloped away from the foundation. Place garbage cans, mulch, and other potential pest breeding sites far away from the house.

Drain Standing Water

In the same vein, go around your property and drain any standing water that could become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. These disease-carrying pests only need a bottle cap full of water to lay their eggs! So be on the lookout for all standing water sources, such as overturned toys, birdbaths, clogged gutters, grill covers, flowerpots, and garbage can lids.

Throw Out Spoiled Food

Storms often bring with them power outages that can cause food to spoil. That tainted food can invite all manner of critters onto your home, including flies, rodents and cockroaches. Place any spoiled food in sealed trash bags and dispose of them in the proper outdoor receptacles.

Identify Water Damage

With water damage comes the possibility of rotting wood, which can in turn attract termites. The damage they cause by chewing through wood joists, walls and flooring can result in thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to your home. Additionally, excess moisture around your property can cause the soil to get saturated, which prompts underground insects such as ants to seek higher ground. Remove rotting debris that may provide a safe hiding spot for pests, and repair damaged or leaking pipes.

Check For Openings

Wind, rain and hail from storms can not only damage your home but also displace wildlife. As such, larger pests like raccoons, squirrels, mice and rats will try to get into your home via damaged roofing, siding and soffits. Check for signs of damage along the exterior of your home and make all necessary repairs. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with steel wool and caulk to keep pests out.

Contact a Pest Control Professional in Phoenix

After an Arizona storm, if you suspect you have a pest infestation in your home, reach out to a qualified Arizona pest control company like Frontino Pest Control in Scottsadale. to perform an inspection and suggest appropriate treatment. Book your appointment when you contact us at 602-338-9223.