What should I do if rats? - briefly
Inspect the area, seal all openings, place appropriate traps or bait, and contact a licensed pest‑control service to eliminate the infestation safely.
What should I do if rats? - in detail
Rats indicate a breach in sanitation or structural integrity; confirm their activity by looking for droppings, gnaw marks, urine stains, and nesting material.
Secure the area immediately. Wear thick gloves and a mask to avoid disease exposure. Seal food containers, remove pet food, and eliminate standing water.
Conduct a thorough inspection. Identify entry points such as gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and foundation cracks. Measure each opening; any gap larger than ¼ inch requires sealing with steel wool, metal flashing, or cement.
Implement exclusion measures. Install door sweeps, repair damaged screens, and trim vegetation that contacts the building. Ensure trash receptacles have tight-fitting lids.
Set traps strategically. Place snap or electronic devices along walls, behind appliances, and near known runways. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or fish. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents in sealed bags, and reset devices as needed.
Consider rodenticides only when traps are insufficient. Choose products labeled for indoor or outdoor use, follow label instructions precisely, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
If infestation persists or exceeds a few individuals, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can perform comprehensive assessments, apply advanced baiting systems, and provide guarantees for long‑term control.
Maintain vigilance after removal. Conduct monthly inspections, keep food storage sealed, and repeat exclusion steps. Regular monitoring prevents re‑establishment and protects health and property.