Keep the Critters out! 6 Tips for Preventing Unwanted Pests

by Pioneer State Mutual • September 18, 2025

Insurance, Safety

Nestled amongst the great lakes, Michigan is an ideal habitat for a varied and abundant wildlife population. From the upper peninsula to our southern border, it is a key part of what makes our state so great! Unfortunately, being close to nature often leads to unwanted visitors making your home their own. With so many other options for them, we ought not make our homes more appealing to the local wildlife than the great outdoors.

Are you ready to dive into the super exciting world of pest and rodent control? We promise it’s not as boring as it sounds, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way! So, let’s talk about how you can prevent rodents and pests from crashing your cozy abode.

Okay, let’s be real: nobody wants uninvited guests, especially the kind that nibble on your wires and leave droppings like they own the place… SO what can you do?

  1. Seal off entry points! Whether with caulk, steel wool, or something else entirely, close off any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and the foundation.
  2. Keep food in airtight containers and regularly clean to keep crumbs to a minimum! If rodents find a food source, they’ll want to stay.
  3. Keep garbage outside in closed containers and away from your home. If they can smell it, they will want it!
  4. Use Repellants. Whether you take the natural route or use something with a bit more bite, repellants can offer a huge helping hand in deterring critters! Tip: Peppermint oil or vinegar is said to be an effective natural option. If you choose to use a chemical-based product, be sure to keep it out of reach of small children and pets.
  5. Protect your garden! If you have a garden, those delicious fruits and veggies are like neon signs just begging any rodents in your area to come in for a bite. Have barriers like a fence or wire netting around your garden to keep the sneaky pests at bay.
  6. Keep an eye on your home. Regularly inspect the perimeter and any other worrisome areas for signs of rodents. The earlier you notice an issue, the better!

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, those pesky pests persist. So, when should you call in the professionals? If you’re spotting multiple rodents or finding droppings and nests, it might be time to bring in the experts. They’ve got the skills and tools to tackle the problem head-on.

Have any questions about what you just read? Please contact your Independent Insurance Agent or email us at socialmedia@psmic.com!

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