As fall and winter roll around, we love to think of all of the beautiful things they bring with them. Breathtaking scenery, holidays, and family time, but one thing that these beautiful seasons bring with them that isn’t so pretty is an increase in rodent infestations. While so small, they have a way of making our homes feel invaded and unsafe. If you’ve discovered these creepy critters in your house there are several steps you can take to eliminate the problem not only quickly, but humanely.
It’s important to find solutions that are not only safe for you and your family but also effective in getting get rid of the infestation. Not only are rats and mice one of the biggest nuisances when it comes to your home, but they bring unwanted gifts like droppings and messes. Rodents eat through electrical wires and walls, causing extensive damage and in some cases, fires. Talk about a bad house guest. Speed and time are of the essence when it comes to rodents, as they breed extremely fast and year-round, so channel your inner Usain Bolt and get moving!
- Houston, we have a (rodent) problem. First, make sure that you actually have a rodent problem, which seems like a no-brainer. If you hear pitter-patter sounds throughout your house within the walls or attic, you’re likely housing rats or mice. But your mind can play tricks on your hearing, so the best way to detect a rodent problem is by looking for droppings, chewed wires, and tracks. These are the three tell-tale signs of a rodent infestation.
- Find them. Once you find out that you have them, find out where they’re coming from. Rodents are the best criminals, infamous for sneaking into houses through small spaces. Your best bet is to determine their entry points. Once you determine where the rodents are coming from, you can begin to set traps. Common places you should look at include near the stove’s power supply, inside the attic and crawl spaces, the cupboards, and the garage. Rodents can get into incredibly small spaces, so pay very close attention to details when trying to find their entry points as it can be difficult to find these entry points. After you’ve taken these steps, seal every entry hole that you find. You need to use materials that are impossible for rodents to chew through, such as steel. Don’t underestimate rodents, as they can even chew through cement!
- Gotcha. After sealing all the entry holes you’ve found, you can begin to set traps. Choose efficient traps, as rodents are instinctively wary of new elements in their environment. Rats and mice have a sixth sense for detecting booby traps, so make sure to be on your A-game. Some variations of more efficient traps are snap, electronic, multiple catch, and glue traps. The traps should be placed near the rodent’s entry points. Rodent poison is another option but can be extremely dangerous to children and pets if not used properly. With rat poison, always make sure to do your research. If you are interested in this option, it’s best to choose a rat poison that has been approved by the EPA.
- One more thing. Last but certainly not least, it’s time to remove the dead rodents from your home. It’s not pretty, but you’ll have to remove the bodies from your home safely. Use protective gear and follow the necessary safety procedures like you are a member of the CDC. The bodies may still carry the many diseases that rodents possess.
Rodent removal is an unsavory and sometimes difficult task and can be threatening to the health of your family and home. The best way to have the assurance that the problem will be eradicated in a humane and permanent way is to contact us. With over 50 years of experience dealing with rodent control, take comfort in knowing we have a team of experts waiting for your call.