Paranoia. We all get it after a home invasion. You may start seeing quick blurs of gray in your peripheral vision, hearing what could have been a scratch or a squeak. Pests are certainly a nuisance, but they can also be dangerous. Rat droppings and various pest excretions can make your family sick. And summer time is the time you need to be on the lookout. According to a company offering pest control in Jenks, Oklahoma, the increased moisture and warm temperatures are perfect breeding conditions for the least desirable creepy-crawlies. To keep your home safe and worry free, not to mention cleaner, consider these four ways to reclaim your habitat.

1) Traps

If you are battling mice or rats, various traps can be your first line of defense. You’ll probably want to start with the typical, old-school, metal mousetrap. Just bait the trap and place it in common traffic areas for the critters. If you can’t handle sadistically waiting for the rat to come across your instant doom trap, there are more humane sticky traps that capture the animal alive. Once immobilized, you can then transfer it to a land far, far away.

2) Baits

If you’re battling smaller, less furry creatures like roaches and ants, baits are a great option. Place them in dark corners and along walls where insects like to hide. The poison not only kills the bugs, but draws them in. This helps get rid of the ones you don’t see. For ants, place the bait near their trail. The ants will carry the bait home to their queen which kills the whole colony.

3) Sprays and Bombs

You may find yourself desperately battling fleas or lice, especially if you have pets in your home. The best way to deal with these tiny, vicious beasts is by spraying your home with poisons like Raid. These sprays should be safe for pets and kids once they dry and can work up to six weeks. Check the bottle for safety information.

You’ll also want to fumigate your home with “bug bombs” if you have the chance. Make sure everyone has somewhere to go for a few hours. Remove your pets from your home. Follow all safety instructions. When you come home, you’ll want to wash dishes, bedding, and any surfaces that were exposed.

4) Combine Efforts

Combining multiple methods is your most effective option, especially in insect infestations. Spray around your walls, doorways, and windows where pests enter your home and put out baits. Though sprays can last for weeks or more, it’s okay to spray as needed to keep your home pest free.

When you’ve exhausted all inexpensive efforts, it’s time to call an exterminator. Your health and peace of mind is worth it!