What should you do if rats are running around the house? - briefly
Seal entry points, install traps or bait stations, and call a licensed pest‑control professional for eradication. Remove food sources, store waste securely, and keep the home clean to prevent recurrence.
What should you do if rats are running around the house? - in detail
If rodents are present inside your residence, act promptly to eliminate the infestation and prevent recurrence.
First, protect health and property. Wear disposable gloves and a mask when handling droppings, nesting material, or traps. Dispose of contaminated items in sealed bags and clean surfaces with a disinfectant containing bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). Ventilate rooms for at least 30 minutes before cleaning.
Next, locate entry points. Inspect the exterior for gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and windows. Check the foundation, roof eaves, and crawl spaces. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement; use expanding foam only on non‑metallic gaps to avoid future chewing.
Set up control measures:
- Mechanical traps – Snap traps or electronic devices placed along walls, behind appliances, and near known runways. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of meat. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger side facing the wall.
- Live‑catch traps – If relocation is preferred, check traps daily and release captured animals far from residential areas, adhering to local regulations.
- Poison baits – Use only in sealed bait stations to limit exposure to children and pets. Follow label instructions regarding dosage and placement; place stations along walls, away from food storage areas.
Maintain sanitation to reduce attractants. Store food in airtight containers, promptly clean up crumbs, and eliminate standing water. Remove clutter, especially cardboard boxes and piles of firewood, which provide shelter.
Monitor progress. Inspect traps and bait stations daily for several weeks. Record capture locations to identify any missed entry points. Continue sealing any newly discovered openings.
If activity persists after two weeks of intensive effort, or if the infestation is extensive, contact a licensed pest‑management professional. They can conduct a thorough inspection, apply rodenticides safely, and provide a long‑term exclusion plan.
Finally, implement a preventive schedule: quarterly inspection of the building envelope, regular cleaning of kitchen and waste areas, and periodic maintenance of drainage systems. Consistent vigilance will deter future incursions and safeguard the home’s integrity.