Managing pest populations through prevention is often much more effective than trying to eliminate an established population, especially in outdoor situations. Eradication is a rare goal for pest control in outdoor areas and is usually only attempted when a particular pest poses a threat to human health, the environment or human enterprises such as eradicating European fruit flies or gypsy moths. In contrast, eradication may be a more realistic goal in enclosed spaces such as homes, schools, offices and health care, food preparation and distribution facilities.
Pest infestations generally happen when there is a perfect storm of conditions that bring pests together: a favorable weather pattern, food, water and shelter. Many of these factors are easy to modify and can help prevent pest problems from occurring in the first place.
Screening windows and doors, plugging holes, sealing cracks and repairing leaky pipes are simple steps that can be taken to keep pests out of the house. Regular interior and exterior inspections can reveal a wide range of potential pest entry points, including the foundation, walls, roof and utility lines. In addition, it is important to maintain a clean environment by regularly emptying trash cans and cleaning food containers inside and outside the house.
Some of the most common Diamond pest prevention include rodents, ants, spiders and beetles. Some pests like to live in the yard, and others enter structures looking for food or shelter. The best way to minimize these pests is to keep the area around your house free of clutter and trim back shrubs and tree limbs that touch the building. This allows you to see any signs of an infestation and take action quickly.
Another key to preventing pests is deny food, water and shelter. For example, ripe fruit and unwashed vegetables attract flies and ants while rotting fruits, grains and wood provide food for termites and beetles. Store produce, grain and pet foods in sealed containers. Wash dirty dishes and utensils on a regular basis to avoid attractants such as mold and crumbs.
Pests also need water to regulate their bodies. Eliminating standing water by repairing leaky pipes, draining gutters and removing puddles will prevent many pests from invading.
In addition, keeping the grass short and avoiding overgrowth of weeds helps to eliminate places for pests to hide. Lastly, deny pests access to your structure by installing screens in windows and doors, closing crawl space vents, and making sure that all chimneys are properly maintained. It is also important to eliminate wood piles and compost heaps that may attract pests. Whenever possible, use natural barriers such as rocks or gravel to separate landscaping from your home. This can stop wildlife and rodents from accessing the home through these pathways and reduce the need for toxic chemical pesticides around your home. When necessary, pesticides should be used sparingly and applied only in a targeted manner. Surface sprays should not be used in areas where people will come into direct contact with the chemicals and should be confined to out-of-the-way areas such as along skirting boards.