What should I do if there is a dead mouse in a well? - briefly
Secure the well, wear gloves and a mask, then extract the mouse with a scoop or pump, clean the surface with a disinfectant solution, and flush the well before reopening it for use.
What should I do if there is a dead mouse in a well? - in detail
When a deceased rodent is discovered in a well, immediate action is required to protect water quality and prevent disease transmission.
First, secure the site. Restrict access to the wellhead and post warning signs. Ensure that any personnel involved wear disposable gloves, waterproof boots, and a face mask to avoid direct contact with the carcass or contaminated water.
Next, remove the body. Use a long-handled net or a dedicated retrieval tool designed for confined spaces. If the well is deep, attach the net to a sturdy rope and lower it slowly, keeping the line taut to prevent the animal from slipping back. Once the carcass is secured, lift it out of the well and place it in a sealed, biohazard‑rated container.
After extraction, disinfect the interior. Fill the well with a chlorine solution (approximately 50 mg/L free chlorine) and circulate for at least 30 minutes. Drain the solution, then rinse the well thoroughly with clean water. Repeat the chlorination step if visual contamination persists.
Finally, dispose of the waste properly. Transfer the sealed container to a licensed hazardous‑waste disposal facility or follow local regulations for animal carcass removal. Document the incident, including date, actions taken, and personnel involved, and report it to the relevant health or water authority to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Regular well maintenance, such as installing a secure cover and conducting periodic inspections, reduces the likelihood of similar occurrences.