Controlling rats and mice in buildings involves a combination of exclusion, sanitation, and wise use of rodenticides. Wherever possible, rodents should be excluded by blocking or sealing all areas where they may enter the building.
A program of sanitation will help control rat populations before they increase. Rodenticides may be used to bring problem rat populations into check. However, poisons alone will not provide long-term relief from rat infestations. Rodenticides must be used along with exclusion and sanitation efforts. Trapping may be effective where there are rat or mouse populations.
Four Steps for Successful Rodent Control
- BUILD THEM OUT. Seal all openings larger than 1/4 inch.
- ELIMINATE FOOD SOURCES. Do not store garbage outside in plastic bags and do not leave pet food or ripe fruit on the ground. Follow good sanitation methods both inside and outside of home.
- ELIMINATE NESTING SITES. Remove piles of debris, stored magazines, newspaper and trash and stack lumber and firewood at least 12 inches off the ground and away from the house.
- BAITING AND TRAPPING. The best trap is the large, simple, cheap wooden "snap trap". Snap traps are sold in hardware stores. When using rodenticides place rodenticides in bait stations to increase their safety and effectiveness.
| ALWAYS read and follow the manufacturers label instructions on all rodenticides. If you have further questions, call the manufacturer. Their phone number is on the label. The label is the law! |
Free! Public Information Rat and Rodent Control Booklet
To request a FREE comprehensive Rat and Rodent Control Booklet detailing Rat Exclusion Methods, Rodent-Proofing, Sanitation, Baiting and Trapping, call the City of Riverside 311 Call Center at (951) 826-5311
For additional information on rodents, view the following websites:
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