Here are a few tips  from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) to help prevent unwanted “guests” from getting into your holiday goodies.

• Immediately wipe up any crumbs or spills from countertops, tables, floors and shelves.
• Store food in airtight containers and dispose of garbage regularly in sealed receptacles.
• Only purchase food in sealed packages that show no sign of damage.
• Add a bay leaf to canisters and packages of dry goods like flour, rice and other grains- their pungent scent repels many pantry pests.
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors and repair damaged screens.
• Check expiration dates on baking ingredients before use.
• Eliminate all moisture sites, including leaking pipes and clogged drains.