Access to food scraps and the presence of hiding places help rodents such as rats and mice to survive in residential areas. Good sanitation will effectively limit the number of rats and mice that can survive in and around your home or the place of business.
Effective rat control involves good housekeeping, proper storage and handling of food materials and refuse, and elimination of rodent shelter (harborage). Outside dog pens must be properly maintained to reduce potential rats and mice problem. Removing clutter around homes removes rats and mice hiding places and allows you to spot any signs of them early, before they had a chance to settle in. Good sanitary practices will not eliminate rodents, but it will make the environment less suitable for them to thrive.
Rodent-proof Construction
The most successful and permanent form of rats and mice control is to “build them out” by making their access to structures impossible. Ideally, all places where food is stored, processed or used should be rodent-proof. Store bulk foods, bird seed and dry pet food in metal cans with tight fitting lids.
Seal any openings larger than 1/4 inch to exclude both rats and mice. Openings where utility conduits enter buildings should be sealed tightly with metal or concrete. Equip floor drains and sewer pipes with tight fitting grates having openings less than 1/4 inch in diameter. Screens, windows and doors should fit tightly. It may be necessary to cover edges with sheet metal to prevent gnawing.
For more tips on how to prevent rats and mice from settling in your home, see the video below:
Effective Rodent Control in Your Home or Your Place Of Business
Onguard Pest Control offers fast, effective elimination of rats and mice for both residential and commercial clients. Our highly experienced Rodent Control team can:
- set up rat traps
- set up bait stations
- monitor the traps and remove caught or dead rodents
- pest proof your property
