Monarch SE 2004 - Page 136

136 | Section 3 Exterior & Interior ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- Monarch SE 2004
• Seal cracks, crevices, and other gaps especially around doors and
windows. Make sure all windows and doors are screened and fit the
screens snug in their frames.
• Many pests need moisture to successfully live and reproduce. Limit
their access to water or moisture sources by sealing any cracks and
leaks in pipes and faucets. Reduce moisture in the motorhome by
controlling condensation, immediately wiping up spills and promptly
repairing leaks. Be extra alert around areas that attract rodents and
insects, including the sewer hose, fresh water hose, bay doors and
items that may be leaning against the outside of the motorhome, such
as fishing poles and golf clubs.
• When the motorhome is stored outdoors, clear the surrounding area of
all rodent friendly hiding places - shrubs, trees and clutter. Completely
seal the underside of the motorhome. Wire mesh will work well to
prevent points of entry, but beware of blocking necessary air vents.
Prior to operating the motorhome after storage, remove all insect and
animal nests that may have developed around vents, engine compartments,
the exhaust pipe and in the wheel wells.
Rodents
Rodents may chew through wires or build nests in components of the
motorhome. Signs of rodent infestation include droppings, shredded material or
chewed furniture fabrics and vinyl. Rodents like to build nests with wire insulation,
and are commonly attracted to the outside coating of 110 wiring more than 12 Volt
wiring.
NOTE: Although the back cap of most motorhomes is well sealed,
rodents are capable of chewing through the foam insulation and that
area should be routinely inspected.
If there are signs of rodent infestation around the motorhome, place traps or
poisons in suspected areas. Keep the traps and poisons safely away from pets and
children. Cheese is not the best bait for a rodent trap. Use peanut butter or
chocolate in small amounts. Place the bait on the trigger of the trap to induce the
rodent to climb onto the trigger to reach the bait. Rodents do not limit invasion to
unused vehicles.
Insects:
Eliminate insects the moment a sign of infestation is spotted. If you are unable
to identify the type of insect, purchase some sticky traps from the hardware store
and place the tape where you have seen the insects. Once caught, seek assistance
in identifying the insect and determining what will be required to remove the
infestation.