Texas Kid-Safe Pest Tips
In Texas, family life often revolves around the outdoors — backyard barbecues, afternoons at the park and kids running barefoot through the grass. But along with the sunshine and warm weather comes another part of Texas living: pests. From fire ants to raccoons, Texas critters are tough, resourceful and ready to take advantage of any opening they can find.
At Apple Pest Control, we understand how important it is to protect your home and your family — especially your little ones — from pests that can bite, sting or spread disease. As a family-owned business serving Helotes, San Antonio and Bexar County since 1984, we know the local pest landscape like the back of our hand.
The Texas Pest Problem: Why Our Climate Attracts Critters
Texas is a haven for all kinds of pests because of its warm, humid climate and long growing season. While those conditions make for great outdoor living, they also create the perfect environment for insects and wildlife to thrive year-round.
- Fire ants — Common in yards and playgrounds across South Texas. Their painful stings can cause severe allergic reactions in children and pets.
- Mosquitoes — Especially active after heavy rain or during humid summer evenings. They can carry West Nile and other viruses.
- Scorpions — Texas homeowners, particularly near greenbelts or rocky areas, know these nocturnal stingers all too well.
- Cockroaches — The American and German cockroach are both common in San Antonio homes, often sneaking in through drains or cracks.
- Rodents and wildlife — In semi-rural areas like Helotes and Boerne, families may encounter raccoons, opossums, snakes or even armadillos looking for shelter.
Regular home pest control helps keep these pests under control — before they become a bigger issue.
Keeping Kids Safe Starts With Prevention
When children play outside or spend time on the floor indoors, they’re naturally more exposed to pest activity. The good news is that with some prevention and professional guidance, you can create a safe, pest-free space for your family.
Here are a few Texas-tested tips for keeping your home and yard protected:
- Watch for fire ant mounds — Especially after rain. Treat any visible mounds promptly and teach kids to avoid them.
- Keep lawns trimmed — Tall grass and overgrown shrubs make great hiding spots for mosquitoes, snakes and rodents.
- Seal gaps and cracks — Texas homes settle over time, leaving gaps around foundations and windows that pests can squeeze through.
- Eliminate standing water — Empty buckets, birdbaths and clogged gutters to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
- Keep pet food sealed — In Texas, raccoons, ants and roaches are drawn to pet bowls left outside overnight.
These steps, paired with Apple’s professional treatments, help ensure your home stays safe for kids, pets and visitors alike.
Safe, Eco-Friendly Pest Control For Families
At Apple, we believe pest control shouldn’t come at the expense of your family’s health or the environment. That’s why we use eco-friendly and humane methods designed to control pests without exposing your loved ones to harsh chemicals.
Our organic pest control options are ideal for families with young children or pets. We focus on integrated pest management — targeting problem areas, sealing entry points and using natural repellents when possible. It’s all part of our commitment to providing safe, responsible pest control in San Antonio.
Wildlife Encounters: What Texas Families Should Know
It’s not uncommon for Texas homeowners to spot more than just insects. Local wildlife can wander into yards, garages or even attics — especially during droughts or cold snaps when animals seek water and warmth.
- Raccoons and opossums — These critters often rummage through trash or pet food, leaving behind messes and potential disease risks.
- Snakes — Most are harmless, but species like copperheads can pose a threat. Apple offers wildlife removal in San Antonio that’s humane and effective.
- Armadillos — Common in Hill Country lawns, these diggers can damage turf and gardens.
Apple’s wildlife control team uses safe, humane removal techniques to relocate animals and help prevent future visits.
Local Care From A Family Who Knows Texas
Apple Pest Control isn’t a big national chain — we’re your neighbors. The Goodson family has been part of the San Antonio and Helotes community for decades, supporting local charities, youth sports and senior centers. Our motto, “Let Our Family Take Care of Yours,” reflects the care and trust that drives everything we do.
When pests invade your home, you can count on Apple to deliver reliable, family-friendly solutions backed by nearly 40 years of local experience.
Keep Your Family Safe Year-Round
From scorching Texas summers to mild winters, pests don’t take a season off — and neither do we. Whether you’re dealing with ants in the kitchen, roaches in the pantry or unwanted wildlife in the attic, Apple Pest Control is here to help.
Call today to schedule your home pest control service in San Antonio, Helotes or surrounding areas. Because if it bugs you, it bugs us.
