From termites to bedbugs, carpenter ants to roaches, spiders to bees, summer is the time of year when insects and pests tend to become more active and look for places to nest. It's easy to see why your home can be an attractive spot. Learn how to help keep bugs out of your yard and home this season.

Seal your doors and windows

Bugs are experts at finding ways to get into your home — and because of their small size, they don't need a whole lot of space to enter. Eliminating potential entry points can help keep them out of your home. Do this by caulking or sealing any noticeable gaps around your doors or windows. This can also help prevent drafts in the winter and cool air loss in the summer, improving your home's energy efficiency.

Maintain your yard

Ensuring your yard is properly maintained is one of the most important things you can do to prevent bug intruders. Some yard maintenance best practices include:

• Eliminate low spots where water pools and allows bugs to breed.
• Keep gutters clean and clear.
• Change water regularly in fountains and birdbaths.
• Rake leaves and keep any piles of debris to a minimum.
• If you have a backyard pool, ensure it's cared for properly.

Treat your lawn and spray around your home

If you're comfortable using chemicals around your home and on your lawn, they can offer an effective solution for preventing bugs from entering your property. Consider spraying your lawn with insecticides to control insect activity. You can also purchase perimeter bug sprays at your local hardware store that you can use on the exterior of your home to prevent bugs from entering.

Store food properly

Bugs need water and a food source to survive. Therefore, make sure that any food is stored properly in sealed containers. Rinse out soda cans and bottles, and be sure that even pet food is stored properly. If you spill a drink or food in the home, clean it up immediately before any insects catch the scent of it.

Treat your pets

Fleas are one of the most common causes of skin disease in dogs and cats, and they can hitchhike their way into your home if you don't take proper preventive measures. Make sure you consult with your veterinarian on flea control and prevention so that your pet doesn't bring fleas into your home.