"Critters" and wildlife around your home can be charming to look at, but for your own safety and for the good of your home, keep them out of the house.
A possum, raccoon or other critter could damage your property and threaten your health and safety if it seeks shelter in your home. Add the following projects to your upcoming fall to-do list to keep local wildlife from moving in.
• Inspect your home’s exterior for openings animals could use as entry points. These might include vents, damaged shingles, holes in siding and gaps where different building materials meet. Large holes should be permanently repaired or covered with a chew-resistant solid material or screen, such as ½-inch hardware cloth. Fill smaller gaps or cracks with caulk, mortar, expandable foam or steel wool.
• Install hardware cloth around decks and open foundations that sit less than two feet off the ground. Dig a trench one foot deep and eight inches wide around the perimeter. Attach screening to the deck, and then bury the screen in the trench, bending it into an “L” shape at the bottom. Backfill the trench.
• Cover your chimney with a chimney cap.
• Top window wells with grates or plastic covers.
• Trim tree branches that overhang rooflines.
• Repair or replace damaged fascia or soffit boards.
• Repair or replace damaged windows or doors.
• Eliminate food sources. Cover compost bins and store pet food indoors. Secure trash can lids with locks or cables.
• Keep gutters clean and remove debris piles from your lawn. Store material such as firewood off the ground; stack to minimize openings.
Before repairing or sealing possible entries, make sure an animal hasn’t already made itself at home. Inspect chimney flues and attics for clues such as droppings. Stuff holes loosely with paper or sprinkle powder outside openings, and then return after a few days of calm weather. If the paper and powder are undisturbed, make any necessary repairs. If there are signs of activity, call a professional to have the animal safely removed.
Article submitted by Brennan Purdy of State Farm Insurance
My vision is to be an insurance professional whose actions are driven by keeping the customer's best interest as my primary goal. My staff will treat all my customers in a caring, friendly, and professional manner. My office will provide warm, efficient, and seamless services to our customers at all times. I expect my business to be comprised of knowledgeable, multiple-line customers who see my office as their first and best choice for all their insurance and financial service needs
For more information on these and other home safety tips, stop by my office or visit www.brennanpurdy.com. My office is conveniently located in downtown Bethel. 203-798-7300. 211 Greenwood Avenue , Bethel, CT 06801
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