What to do during a rat attack? - briefly
When rodents invade, secure food, seal openings, deploy traps or call pest control, then disinfect the area and monitor for further activity.
What to do during a rat attack? - in detail
When rodents surge into a living space, immediate actions must protect people, pets, and property while limiting the animals’ ability to cause damage.
First, secure all occupants. Guide children and animals to a safe room, close doors, and block entry points with towels or furniture. Turn off lights in the affected area to reduce visibility for the pests and avoid startling them.
Next, contain the infestation. Shut off food sources by sealing containers, removing waste, and cleaning spills. Place sturdy containers over exposed food and store perishables in airtight bins.
Then, neutralize the threat. Use snap traps, electronic traps, or approved poison baits according to manufacturer instructions. Position devices along walls, near droppings, and in corners where activity is evident. Wear thick gloves and a mask when handling traps or dead rodents to prevent disease transmission.
Afterward, sanitize the environment. Wear disposable gloves, collect droppings, urine, and nesting material, and dispose of them in sealed bags. Clean surfaces with a disinfectant solution containing at least 0.1 % bleach or an EPA‑registered rat sanitizer. Launder fabrics that may have been contaminated.
Finally, prevent recurrence. Inspect the building for gaps larger than ¼ inch, repair cracks, seal utility openings, and install metal mesh around vents. Schedule regular inspections by a licensed pest‑control professional and maintain a clean, clutter‑free interior to eliminate shelter.