Top 10 pre-summer maintenance tips to pest-proof your home:

1. Seal any cracks on your home’s exterior – e.g., around windows, doors, air conditioning and water lines
    
2. Repair torn window and sliding-door screens, as pests will enter your home through them
    
3. Mosquitoes love standing water, so eliminate the source: bird baths, clogged gutters and pools that are not circulating water with a pump
    
4. Keep shrubs and trees trimmed away from your home
    
5. Keep your pets’ feeding and drinking area clear of leftover food
    
6. Clean your countertops after each use, as food and drink residue will attract both ants and roaches
    
7. Food cabinets should be kept tidy; seal those opened packages inside containers to avoid a possible food source
    
8. Vacuum and clean your floors on a regular basis
    
9. Keep your shed and garage clear of food items and clutter – rodents will feed and nest in these locations
    
10. Inspect your outdoor garbage area for pest activity regularly, and keep the area clean and uncluttered

This list should help keep pest activity at a minimum around your home during the hot-weather months. If you do suspect an infestation of any kind, call your friendly local experts at Kill A Bug JSA 071 607 0813 email kabjsa@telkomsa.net or web www.kabjsa.co.za