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Leaving lights on is not an effective or foolproof method for keeping cockroaches away. While roaches are nocturnal and prefer darkness, light alone is not enough to stop them, especially if they are seeking food, water, or shelter. A bright light might temporarily discourage them, but hungry or determined roaches will often adapt and venture into lit areas. For more effective cockroach control, it is better to focus on proven prevention methods. These include maintaining cleanliness by eliminating food crumbs, sealing cracks and entry points, reducing clutter that provides hiding spots, and fixing any moisture issues. Using traps or repellents can also be part of a comprehensive strategy.

One way to keep pests away is with good housekeeping. Keep ants away with a clean kitchen. They’re less likely to wander in looking to score some free food if there isn’t a mess to find. Wipe down counters, don’t leave dirty dishes around, and keep food in air-tight containers. 

Home and yard maintenance can also keep pests away. Seal windows, patch any holes or cracks, and put screens on the vents to prevent bugs, rodents, and other uninvited guests from coming in.

Across most of the United States, the fall season sees rats at their prime activity levels. As temperatures drop, rats become more active, spurred by the weather shift to seek shelter as winter approaches. During this time, their curiosity and energy peak, driving them to explore what your home and its surroundings might offer.

It can be difficult to know what type of animal is in your attic until you see it. But several clues can help you narrow down the suspects:

• Sounds: Smaller animals like rats and mice make scurrying and tapping/gnawing sounds. Larger animals like raccoons and opossums make louder clambering noises. Also, note when animals are noisy: Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are busiest at night.

• Droppings: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat’s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you’re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you’re seeing in your attic.

When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.