The National Pest Management Association offers advice for an ant-free home

While the summer season often yields beach trips, backyard BBQs and cookouts, it also welcomes a houseguest that nobody wants—ants! These pests can pose health and property risks - from food contamination to costly property damage. As a result, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is sharing tips for an ant-free home this summer.

“It is essential to partner with a pest control professional as ants are more than a minor nuisance in the home,” said Cindy Mannes, senior vice president of public affairs for the NPMA. “Some ant species can contaminate exposed food items. Other species like carpenter ants can cause severe property damage as they tunnel through wood to build nests, and the red imported fire ants will often sting when their nests are disturbed.”

Although small in size, these pests can cause big problems on your property. NPMA is recommending the following tips to prevent an ant infestation in your home:

• Wipe up crumbs and spills immediately
• Keep food packages closed or sealed and store products in tightly airtight containers
• Store garbage in sealed containers and regularly remove it from the home
• Seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home, including entry points for utilities and pipes
• Repair holes or gaps in window and door screens
• Keep pet food and water dishes clean
• Replace weather-stripping and repair loose mortar around the basement foundation and windows

Summer is the peak season for these unwanted invaders to surface. So, it is important to take the necessary precautions and pay close attention to signs of a potential ant infestation. If you discover ants in your home, be sure to contact a licensed pest control professional to treat the problem.

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, TikTok and YouTube.

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While the #summer season often yields beach trips, backyard BBQs and cookouts, it also welcomes a houseguest that nobody wants—#ants! @PestWorld is sharing tips for an ant-free home this summer.