Don't Let Pests Make Your Home Theirs for the Holidays

The National Pest Management Association is sharing key pest prevention tips in time for the holiday season

FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The holiday season is nearly here, which means baking and decorating are just around the corner. While this time of year is an occasion for celebration, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is also sharing advice on how to avoid potential holiday pests.

“While preparing for the holidays, it’s important to make sure your festivities aren’t accidentally attracting pests,” said Cindy Mannes, senior vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “Taking simple precautions while baking and decorating is a must to protect your home from pests.”

Baking and cooking during the holiday season can attract pantry pests like Indian meal moths and merchant grain beetles. NPMA recommends following these tips to keep your kitchen pest-free:

• Store food properly in containers with an airtight seal.
• Before purchasing food at the grocery store, inspect boxes and bags for any damage.
• Keep kitchen surfaces and floors clean and regularly dispose of garbage in a sealed receptacle.

For those who decorate their homes with fresh greenery like wreaths, trees or garlands, NPMA has tips to avoid bringing pests into the home:

• Before decorating, thoroughly inspect all live greenery for any pests or eggs.
• Shake out all live greenery before bringing decorations indoors.
• When disposing of your greenery, place it far away from the home to avoid attracting pests.

If you suspect an infestation, do not attempt to eradicate it yourself. It is always recommended that you contact a licensed pest control professional to safely remove pests from your home.

For more information about pest prevention, please visit www.PestWorld.org.

About the National Pest Management Association

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 5,500 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.