What should you do if there are mice and rats in the home? - briefly
Seal all entry gaps, place traps or bait stations, and keep the interior free of food debris; if the problem continues, enlist a licensed pest‑control service.
What should you do if there are mice and rats in the home? - in detail
If rodents have entered your living space, immediate action is required to prevent health risks and structural damage.
First, identify entry points. Examine walls, foundation, windows, doors, and utility penetrations for gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Seal openings with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing; these materials resist chewing.
Second, eliminate food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and relocate pet food to sealed bins. Remove standing water and fix leaks to reduce moisture that attracts pests.
Third, set up control measures. Deploy a combination of snap traps, live‑catch traps, and bait stations in areas of activity—typically along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected nests. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the wall, to increase capture rates. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractants; avoid toxic poisons if children or pets are present.
Fourth, monitor and maintain. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations, and reset devices as needed. Replace bait regularly to retain effectiveness.
Fifth, consider professional intervention when infestations persist or when structural damage is evident. Licensed exterminators can perform thorough inspections, apply rodenticides safely, and provide long‑term exclusion plans.
Finally, adopt preventive habits. Keep the home clutter‑free, trim vegetation away from the building, and conduct periodic inspections of the exterior for new openings. Consistent sanitation and exclusion will deter future incursions.