Your business is one of your top priorities. A lot of your time revolves around making sure it runs smoothly, both on a day to day basis and on in the long run. As you probably know, pest infestations are one of the most dreaded problems that a business owner has to deal with. Not only do you have to close your doors to the public while you fix the issue, but it puts your reputation at risk as well. It only takes one customer spotting an insect or rodent in your place to spread across the internet and scare new customers away. This is especially true if your business is one of the restaurants or food related businesses in Bakersfield.

It’s important to be proactive about pest control, since preventative measure are usually less expensive and more effective than damage control in the midst of an emergency situation. Here are a few things that you can do in order to avoid a reputation damaging problem in the future.

Implement Strict Cleaning Guidelines

The first thing you can do to keep your business safe from pests is set standards for the way that it’s cleaned. Make a list of the specific ways areas need to be cleaned each night before closing. The more detailed, the better. Make a habit of cleaning off surfaces multiple times a day, even if they don’t seem messy. Sweep or vacuum every day, and mop floors at least twice a week. Make sure you talk to your staff about this, and consider running through the new routine with them so that you know they’re cleaning properly.

Routine Pest Control Services

While you probably won’t need a fumigation every month, your business can benefit greatly from a monthly pest inspection. Hiring a trusted, local pest control to send a tech out each month to check on things is a great way of preventing an infestation, as well as catching any issues as soon as they arise. Your pest technician will not only be able to clear out any issues you have currently, but they’ll also let you know if you or your staff can do anything to make your business even less likely to attract an infestation going forward.

It’s important to do your research on local pest control companies, since they’re working in and around your business. If you do run into an issue at some point, you might not have time to do the proper amount of research, so it’s better to find a company you trust beforehand.

Store Food Correctly

This is especially important for food related businesses. Make sure that any and all food is being stored properly when it’s not being used. Food should be stored in airtight containers, with lids that lock into place. Talk to your staff and make sure that they are putting food away as soon as they are finished using it, even if it’s likely that they’ll be using it again soon.

Even if you don’t have a food related business, make sure that your employees store their lunches and snacks in the refrigerator or in airtight containers. It might be a good idea to provide some, just to be safe. Trash cans should also have tightly securing lids, and should be emptied at least once a day, even if they aren’t full.