Being Proactive Can Prevent Bugs In House This Spring

Being proactive in preparing for springtime insects now can save you time and money in the long run.

Overton County UT Ag Extension Agent Jason Garrett said bugs will be returning from dormancy soon and wreaking havoc for homeowners. He said one of the best ways to keep your home protected is to stay clean.

“Try to eliminate the habitat for these bugs to live in,” Garrett said. “So basically, you know, a clean house. Everything nice and neat. That way, they don’t really have a habitat to stay in.”

He said venomous spiders, termites, and bed bugs are among the most harmful insects that may try to infiltrate homes this spring. He said residents should already be developing relationships with pest-control companies that can spray their homes before spring.

“If you use a local pesticide company, have them spray the inside as well as the outside of your house,” Garrett said. “The crack and crevice method, as we call it. They spray a labeled chemical, one that you cannot purchase over the county.”

He said spraying around walls, basements, and baseboards helps prevent bugs from finding their way in. He said regionally, brown recluses and black widows can pose the most serious threat to health. He said a bite from either of those spiders can create serious illness and precautions should be taken long before they arrive.

He said those with pets in the house should be mindful of bed bugs and fleas. He said they can easily be tracked in by animals that are not routinely bathed. He said those who wait until there is a problem will face consequences that can be avoided by taking measures before the infestation occurs.

“It’s going to be more work for one,” Garrett said. “It may cost you more if you have a bad infestation of stuff and it’s double the cost.”