(NAPSA)—Let’s face it—ter- mites, wasps, spiders, cock- roaches, ants and rodents would all like to be permanent residents of our nice, cozy homes. Fortunately, while these pests have been around longer than man- kind, controlling them in your homeis achievable. That’s just as well, since these creepy, crawly creatures can sometimes cause irreparable damage and pose serious health risks to you and your family. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) recommendseliminating the elements that are required for pest survival—_food, water and shelter. The most obvious way to keep pests away is to stop providing them with free meals. Properly seal all food in airtight containers in the kitchen and sweep up crumbs. Remove garbage daily, wash countertops with soap and warm water and clean up grease and spills. Wallpaper, cabinet liners, potted plants, cut flowers and grocery bags can all be sources of food for pests. A quick inspection every few days around the home can be highly effective in controlling pests. Also effective in keeping your home pest-free is eliminating their water supply. Insects and rodents love moisture and thrive in damp, warm conditions. Drain all sources of standing, stagnant water around your home, such as birdbaths and wading pools, after use. Supply garden ponds with airfilters to keep water fresh and moving. If these mice are not welcome in your home, take action. Effective measures can prevent mice and other pests from moving in. * Do not leave dishes soaking in the sink overnight and be sure the faucets in your kitchen and bathroom are not dripping or leaking underneath. Another effective way to keep pests out of your homeis to eliminate their shelter. Keep vines, branches, flower gardens and mulch away from the house. Close or screen possible pest entry points, such as open windows and doors, and seal cracks and crevices in walls, vents, air ducts and openings aroundpipes. In the professional pest management industry, this three- pronged approach of eliminating pests’ food, water and shelter is called Integrated Pest Management (IPM). To begin an IPM program in your home, contact a pest professional to inspect your property and provide you with advice to help keep your homepest-free. For more information on IPM or to research other pest issues, visit www.pestworld.org.
