Pest Control Post Hurricane Milton

As Hurricane Milton makes landfall, the aftermath of the storm can bring a host of unexpected pest control issues

Flooding from the storm often forces pests like rats, fire ants, and other insects to seek refuge in higher ground—which, unfortunately, could mean your home.

Here are key tips on how to protect yourself and your home from pests during and after the hurricane.

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Protecting Your Home from Rats Entering Through Toilets

One little-known side effect of flooding during hurricanes is that rats can end up in your home by way of the toilet.

When sewers flood, rats may seek an escape route, and toilets provide an open pathway.

To prevent this unpleasant surprise, consider covering your toilet with plastic wrap or, even better, using a board that can’t be chewed through.

This simple step can save you from the stress of dealing with a rodent problem in the middle of storm recovery.

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Floating Fire Ant Rafts and Indoor Invasions

Another serious concern post-hurricane is fire ants.

Flooding destroys their mounds and forces them to find higher ground, which could very well be inside your house.

These resilient pests form rafts to float to safety during floods and can end up invading your home.

Be prepared with pest control sprays, such as Raid, to tackle any ant invasions.

While they might not seem like the most pressing concern during a hurricane, a swarm of ants in your home can be a real concern, especially for children or pets who could be at risk of stings.

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Displaced Wildlife and Bugs After the Storm

The storm doesn’t just affect rodents and ants—snakes, alligators, and stinging or venomous insects can also be displaced by flooding.

As you begin the cleanup process after Hurricane Milton, always wear gloves and protective clothing.

You may come across dangerous critters hiding in debris, such as poisonous snakes or stinging insects, that have taken refuge in piles of leaves or fallen branches.

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High Ground Means Higher Pest Activity

Floodwaters push all kinds of creatures out of their natural habitats, forcing them into unfamiliar and often inconvenient locations—like your home or yard.

In addition to rats and ants, you may also encounter other pests like roaches, spiders, or other insects termites.

Pest control is crucial after a storm, as infestations can spread quickly when pests seek out dry, safe shelter.

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Be Ready for Pest Control Issues Before and After the Storm

To minimize pest problems during and after Hurricane Milton, take a proactive approach:

• Seal your home: Check for gaps, cracks, or other entry points where pests can get in.
• Cover drains: Use temporary seals on your drains, especially toilets, to prevent pests from entering through sewage lines.
• Have pest control supplies on hand: Stock up on sprays and traps to deal with pests immediately if they do invade your home.

Handling Snakes After the Storm: What to Do

After Hurricane Milton, displaced snakes may end up inside your home or yard, seeking dry, safe ground. While encountering a snake might seem alarming, there’s no need to panic—most of the time, you’re dealing with small, nonvenomous snakes that can be safely handled.

Nonvenomous Snakes: Simple Removal

If the snake is nonvenomous, it’s perfectly fine to pick it up and gently toss it back outside. Nonvenomous snakes pose little threat, and they may even help control other pests in your yard. Just be sure to handle them carefully and calmly.

Venomous Snakes: Use Caution

If you come across a venomous snake, don’t attempt to kill it. Venomous snakes can be dangerous, and killing them is often unnecessary. Instead, use a broom and dustpan to carefully sweep the snake outside. Most of the time, the snakes you encounter will be small, and sweeping them out is the easiest and safest way to get them out of your home.

If you’re unsure about the snake or feel uncomfortable handling it, it’s best to call a professional for removal.

Always avoid directly confronting venomous snakes.

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Final Thoughts and Precautions

Hurricanes are stressful enough without having to worry about pests invading your home.

With a little preparation, you can avoid the worst of these problems.

Stay vigilant during the storm and take action as soon as it’s safe to do so to keep your home pest-free.

As always, Pest & Lawn Organic Guard Inc. is here to help residents along the Space and Treasure Coasts recover and protect their homes from any pest issues that arise from Hurricane Milton.

Schedule Your Pest Control Treatment Now!

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FAQ’s Pest Control & Hurricane Milton