Assuming that your city-based business is less exposed to pests than your rural counterpart would be a grave error. Major cities like Toronto are rampant with little critters and tiny bugs, each desperate to find shelter and warmth as the cold weather sets in and temperatures drop.
Read on for common winter pest challenges that Toronto-area businesses are unknowingly exposed to and some solutions to keep these tiny intruders at bay.
Ants — Who Seldom Travel Solo
There are over 700 types of ants across Canada and America. Ants like Pavement, Carpenter and Pharoah ants can move indoors over winter, hiding in cracks, crevices, and gaps in structures. Regardless of the type, the many health hazards associated with pests, like ants, can put public health and your business at risk.
In case of infestation, know that this isn’t a task you can tackle alone and that immediately connecting with commercial pest control in Toronto is vital. Do your due diligence here and look for a reputable company that uses Health Canada-approved ingredients, has glowing customer reviews, and employs highly trained and licensed Service Specialists — doing so will ensure the job gets done right, and you’ll receive documentation that shows your company is meeting legal requirements.
Cockroaches, Boxelder Bugs, and other Insects
Much like ants, these pests migrate inside in search of food, water, and shelter. Boxelder bugs, for example, may first congregate in swarms on the sunny sides of buildings, seeking warmth. They can accidentally enter structures through gaps and cracks in external walls.
Cluster Flies may seek shelter indoors during winter to hibernate. They are often found in roofing and wall voids.
These pests aren’t frequently considered along with roaches, but allowing them to fester and enter your space can seriously ruin your business’s reputation and put your employees’ and clients’ health at risk.
Rodents Looking for Food and Shelter
One of the most significant and problematic winter pest challenges for businesses in Toronto and the GTA is the potential relocation of mice and rats. As temperatures plummet in Southern Ontario, these pests are also driven indoors for warmth and food.
Unfortunately, city streets and surrounding businesses provide ideal rodent shelter, with ample food sources in dumpsters, accessible storage areas and kitchens.
To prevent rodent infestations during the winter, businesses should:
- Conduct regular inspections to identify and seal potential entry points.
- Maintain cleanliness, especially in food storage and preparation areas.
- Train team members on how to spot the warning signs.
However, when it comes to mice and rats, taking a proactive approach is your best option. Find a pest control company that can assess your space, identify early signs of infestation, and implement proactive steps, like blocking gaps and holes alongside deploying targeted treatments.
The Takeaway
Winter presents a new set of challenges for city businesses in the colder regions of North America. But with the right solutions and a proactive approach, you can protect your business and maintain a pest-free environment throughout the frosty months.
By sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and scheduling regular inspections, you can safeguard your business’s reputation and ensure the comfort and safety of employees and customers alike.
