
Other relatively low-risk pesticides are available for some pests.These are often effective and can be used with low risk of exposure to the pesticide, as long as they are kept out of the reach of children and pets.After preventive steps have been taken, you can use baits as a first line of chemical defense against insects or rodents.Keep pets and children away from areas where pesticides have been applied.Check for pests in packages or boxes before carrying them into your home.Learn about the pests you have and options to control them.Use steel wool to fill spaces around pipes. For example, caulk cracks and crevices around cabinets or baseboards. Close off places where pests can enter and hide.Get rid of things like stacks of newspapers, magazines, or cardboard. Clutter provides places for pests to breed and hide and makes it hard to get rid of them.Don't leave pet food and water out overnight.

Don't let water collect in trays under your house plants or refrigerator.

Learn more about the steps you can take to safely control pests: Learning about the pests you have and options that are available to control specific pests is the first step. How can you safely solve your pest problems? The key is to be willing to ask questions.
