Rodent Infestations

Causes for concern

• Rodents can contaminate food and spread diseases through their bites or droppings.
• Rodents can cause damage to property that may result in expensive repair. Rodents can chew and gnaw through almost any common building material including wood.

How do I know if I have an infestation?

Rodents tend to hide during the day. Droppings are the most obvious sign of a rodent's presence. Rat droppings are approximately 1 cm (1/2 in) in length, while mouse droppings are approximately 0.4 cm (1/4 in) in length. Other signs include chewing marks on wood work or hearing noises in the walls.

Tips to prevent rodent infestations

Eliminate food and water sources:

1. Store foods in rodent-proof, food-safe containers.
2. Do not leave pet food outside.
3. Store garbage in rodent-proof containers and remove as quickly as possible.
4. Fix water leaks quickly.

Prevent entry:

1. Seal any holes or cracks around the exterior of buildings. Rodents can pass through very small openings.
2. Keep doors and windows closed or fit with screens.
3. Keep covers on floor drains. Rats can swim underwater for up to 30 seconds (sometimes through pipes) and jump as high as three feet.

Remove hiding and nesting places:

1. Remove debris and clutter inside and outside your home.
2. Store firewood 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) off the ground and away from the walls of buildings.
3. Avoid planting shrubs close to buildings and keep grass trimmed.

Cleaning up rodent infestations safely:

1. Ventilate the area well during clean up.
2. Avoid stirring up dust when cleaning, as viruses can become airborne and inhaled. Wet the area to be cleaned with household disinfectant (do not use a spray).
3. Do not sweep or vacuum the area. Wear gloves and use paper towels to clean wetted areas. Put waste in a plastic garbage bag and tie the bag shut.

Tips on dealing with rodents:

1. Set rodent traps against walls as rodents travel alongside walls and hard vertical surfaces.
2. Use extreme caution when using rodent baits as the poison can be dangerous for children and animals. Contact a licensed pest control company for help to deal with large infestations.

Revised: 2014-12-17