What to do if mice appear in a dormitory? - briefly
Seal all openings, store food in airtight containers, and place snap or live traps in areas of activity. If rodent presence persists, notify dormitory maintenance for professional pest control.
What to do if mice appear in a dormitory? - in detail
When rodents are discovered in a student residence, swift action prevents damage, disease spread, and escalation.
First, verify the presence of activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, gnawed food packaging, and nesting material in corners, under beds, and in kitchen areas.
Next, eliminate pathways for entry. Inspect walls, windows, doors, and utility openings. Apply steel‑wool or copper mesh to gaps larger than a quarter inch, and use caulk or expanding foam to seal cracks.
Maintain strict sanitation standards. Store all food in sealed containers, dispose of waste in tightly closed bins, and clean surfaces daily to remove crumbs and spills that attract rodents.
Implement control measures:
- Snap traps or electronic traps positioned along walls, behind furniture, and near suspected runways; check and reset daily.
- Bait stations approved by campus health authorities, placed out of reach of non‑target animals and children; replace according to label instructions.
- Live‑catch traps only when relocation policies are clearly defined and humane release sites are available.
If activity persists after two weeks of consistent trapping and exclusion, contact the campus facilities or a licensed pest‑management service. Professionals can conduct a thorough inspection, apply rodenticides in compliance with safety regulations, and provide a monitoring plan.
Finally, document all observations, actions taken, and communications with maintenance staff. Submit a written report to the residence hall office to ensure accountability and facilitate future preventive measures.