Preparing Your Shreveport Home for Halloween: Pest Prevention Tips

Why September is the Right Time to Start

Even though it’s not yet October, September is the perfect month to get ahead of pests for a few reasons:

• Rodents start scouting for winter homes: Mice and rats are already looking for warm, safe spaces to settle in before it gets chilly.

• Insects are still active: Ants, spiders, and other bugs are still roaming and may see Halloween decorations as a new playground.

• Prevention is easier than reaction: Fixing a pest problem after candy starts disappearing or decorations are crawling with pests is more complicated than stopping it before Halloween.

Think of September as your home’s “pest check-up” month; get your defenses in place now so October is all treats, no tricks.

Halloween Decorations and Pests: What to Watch

Inflatables and Yard Props

Those giant inflatable ghosts and pumpkin arches are fantastic, but leaving them sitting in one spot can damage the grass and hide pests. Rodents love to nest under quiet, undisturbed areas, and creepy props can give them just the cover they’re looking for.

Tips:

• Rotate inflatables every few days.

• Place them on mats or hard surfaces when possible.

• Keep the area dry — wet grass is attractive to insects and rodents alike.

Pumpkins

Nothing says Halloween like a porch full of pumpkins. But those decorative gourds can attract ants, flies, and other pests if they start to rot.

Tips:

• Use straw, wood, or stepping stones to lift pumpkins off the grass.

• Keep an eye on them and remove any that are starting to soften or mold.

• Consider faux pumpkins if you want decorations that won’t invite bugs.

Candy and Treat Bowls

Trick-or-treat candy is a prime target for ants, cockroaches, and even curious rodents.

Tips:

• Keep candy in sealed containers until the big night.

• Clean up any spills immediately.

• Avoid leaving wrappers or leftover candy outdoors overnight.

Simple Pest Prevention Steps for Your Home

Unfortunately, pests can sneak inside if your home isn’t prepared. Here’s a short list of September must-dos:

• Seal cracks and gaps: Check doors, windows, vents, and foundation for potential insect and rodent entry points.

• Clean up the yard: Remove leaf piles, clutter, or firewood near the house that can hide pests.

• Secure food sources: Pet food, bird seed, and pantry items should be stored in pest-proof containers.

• Check for moisture: Leaks or standing water attract insects, so plumbing issues should be fixed, and containers and other items that collect water should be emptied.  

• Use lighting wisely: Outdoor lights attract bugs; solar lights or motion sensors can reduce insect traffic around decorations.

Why Professional Pest Control Makes Sense

Even with all these precautions, pests are clever and persistent. That’s where Anti-Pest comes in. Our Shreveport home pest control experts will:

• Inspect your home for pest entry points

• Provide effective pest treatments to address insects, spiders, and rodents

• Offer ongoing protection so pests stay out long after the last trick-or-treater leaves

Think of it as hiring a security team — for ants, mice, spiders, and other pests, not burglars.

Enjoy Halloween Without the Unwanted Guests

Getting ahead of pests now means you’ll be ready when October rolls around. With a few smart precautions, careful decoration planning, and the help of the trusted professionals at Anti-Pest, your home can be spooky, fun, and pest-free.

Get in touch today to learn more about our home pest control services. The only things that should be creeping around your yard this Halloween are ghosts, goblins, and maybe your kids in costume