What should you do during a rat infestation? - briefly
Seal all entry points, remove food and water sources, and deploy traps or professional pest control; afterward, disinfect and safely dispose of any contaminated materials.
What should you do during a rat infestation? - in detail
When rats appear in a building, immediate containment is essential. Seal all food sources by storing perishables in airtight containers, cleaning crumbs, and removing pet food overnight. Eliminate water supplies by fixing leaks and drying damp areas.
Inspect the premises thoroughly. Identify entry points such as gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and foundation cracks. Use steel wool, metal flashing, or cement to block openings no larger than a quarter inch.
Deploy control measures promptly. Choose one or more of the following options:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind objects, and near droppings; bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or meat.
- Live‑catch traps if relocation is preferred; release captured rodents at least ten miles from the property.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant pellets; secure them out of reach of children and pets, following label instructions.
- Electronic traps that deliver a lethal shock; position them in concealed locations.
Maintain a strict cleaning regimen. Wear disposable gloves while handling droppings, nests, or contaminated materials. Disinfect surfaces with a solution of bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or a commercial sanitizer. Dispose of waste in sealed bags.
If the infestation persists after three days of intensive effort, contact a licensed pest‑management professional. Experts can assess structural vulnerabilities, apply rodenticides safely, and provide a comprehensive exclusion plan.
After removal, monitor the environment for at least two weeks. Check traps daily, look for fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or new burrows. Reinforce sealed entry points if signs reappear.
Prevent future invasions by maintaining a clutter‑free interior, trimming vegetation away from the building, and storing firewood off the ground. Regularly inspect the exterior for fresh gaps and repair them promptly. Consistent vigilance eliminates conditions that attract rodents and sustains a rat‑free environment.