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Gophers are ubiquitous in certain areas, and the only way to completely get rid of them is to put down gopher wire two feet below the surface of your soil and vertically along the edges of your yard. Unfortunately, this may not be a practical solution unless you’re completely redoing your yard or installing an aboveground garden. Alternatively, you may consider putting underground rock barriers around the edge of your yard to discourage gopher visits. However, you’ll still likely get some pests because they can dig as deep as 6 feet below the surface.

Some pest control treatments, such as spraying insecticides or bug bombs, can cause severe health problems for your household members if you are improperly exposed to them. That's why putting away pet toys, dishes, bedding, children's toys and items is essential. Pest technicians are trained to reduce risk, but it's best to take caution by avoiding the risk of items being accidentally sprayed. Discuss any concerns you may have with your pest control specialist.

Scorpions are repelled by strong scents like lavender, cedar, peppermint, and cinnamon. Applying essential oils of these scents mixed with water around your home's perimeter and entry points can act as a mild, chemical-free deterrent. In addition to scents, scorpions also tend to avoid well-lit areas, preferring to hide in dark, cool, and damp places during the day. However, it's important to note that these methods are not fully effective on their own and should be combined with other preventative efforts, such as sealing any potential entryways into your home.

This varies based on the circumstance. Chemical-based pest control baits and poisons are usually the most potent, but they are unsafe to use around children and pets, so they won’t be a fit for every household.

Safer alternatives, such as boric acid and food-grade diatomaceous earth, can work as well, though they should still stay out of reach. Aside from that, the best thing any DIY-er can do is make their place uninviting by sealing off entry points, eliminating clutter, and maintaining a clean home.