Ireland's leading pest control provider 'Rentokil', is sharing advice with
households across the Northern Sound region on how to help avoid pest issues
over the festive period.
The pest control provider believes that callouts for these pests could rise
sharply over the coming weeks and months, particularly if the current
exceptionally cold conditions continue.
Rentokil has already seen an increase in callouts for rodents in the lead
up to winter (August-October) this year, with callouts up 50% when compared
to the same period last year.
As a result, households are asked to open boxes of decorations outside and
inspect them for any signs of insects or rodents, before bringing them
indoors.
When finished with them, store them in a sealed storage box, ready for next
year.
Inspect your tree carefully before you bring it indoors, as both real and
artificial Christmas trees can be perfect nesting place for insects.
Shake your tree vigorously outdoors so that any insects or their eggs are
shaken loose.
If you have edible treats as Christmas tree decorations, then be sure to
keep an eye on them to check they have not been nibbled, or better still
avoid using them altogether.
Clean up all households, food debris, and spillages to
prevent a potential food source for rodents and insects.
Keep foodstuffs in metal or glass containers with tight fitting lids and put
outdoor rubbish bags in metal bins, with securely fitted lids, to stop pest
insects or rodents from feeding on the contents.
And lastly, dispose of any clutter in the form of Christmas gift wrapping
and packaging, to limit potential hiding places for pests.
