The ants are back in town. How to keep them out...

Spring has sprung - cue the ants...

If you have spotted some big black ants in the house, that could be a problem. Those are most likely carpenter ants and they can do some real damage. The come looking for food in your kitchen in early spring, before their natural food sources are abundant outside. Carpenter ants don’t eat your wood - but they will burrow through it to get to your food. Here is your best defense for keeping those destructive pests out this spring:

• Keep food stored in containers with tight fitting lids.

• Consistently wipe food surfaces down to avoid crumbs and spills.

• Take trash out regularly and store it in bins with lids.

• Remove sticks and other wood debris from lawn that will decay with the moist spring weather.

If you do wind up with carpenter ants, you’ll probably want to consult a professional. They have ways at locating and removing nests and can ultimately help save you a fortune in structural repairs down the road.