Jan. 11, 2010 (Topeka, KS)–With high heating bills and snow to shovel, homeowners have plenty to worry about in the winter months. Yet winter brings one more concern that most homeowners rarely consider – that is until it becomes a problem. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), winter is a prime season for rodent infestations with 24% of homeowners reporting mice infestations specifically in the winter.

Schendel Pest Services warns that rodent infestations can be more than just an annoyance.  Mice bring other pests, such as fleas, mites, ticks and lice, indoors, which can quickly spread throughout homes. More, these rodents can contaminate food sources with feces that can spread Salmonella and Hantavirus.

In addition to health problems, mice can also cause structural damage to homes. “Mice are known to bite through walls, wood and wires,” said Brent Boles, president of Schendel Pest Services. “The damage to wiring within walls can cause house fires.”  Additionally, mice have the potential to breed up to a dozen babies every three weeks, which makes it important to take steps to prevent them from entering your home before a major infestation can develop.

Schendel recommends that homeowners take proactive steps to prevent a rodent infestation this winter:

• Inspect wires, insulation and walls for any signs of gnaw marks, which may indicate an infestation.

• Store boxes and containers off of the floor and organize items often to prevent rodents from residing in undisturbed areas.

• Install gutters or diverts to channel water away from your home.

• Seal cracks and holes on your home’s exterior, including areas where utilities and pipes enter.

• If you find rodent feces, hear sounds of scurrying in the walls or observe other signs of an infestation, contact a licensed pest professional to inspect and treat the pest problem.

About Schendel Pest:  Schendel Pest Services has provided complete pest management services to commercial, industrial, and residential clients since 1947.  Schendel’s corporate office is located in Topeka, Kansas and Schendel provides services to customers in five states – Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.  Additionally, Schendel Pest Services is a partner with Copesan Services, which enables the company to sell and service commercial accounts on a national basis.