Health Protection

General Information

Rats can live in burrows (nests) under or near ground level usually around buildings and items stored in a yard. Rats are excellent swimmers, climbers and jumpers. They can be found in all locations but prefer to live under or in sheds, garages, decks, firewood, or items stored around the home.

Rats may travel up to 30 m (100’) away from their burrows. They are essentially night travellers but can be seen during the day, especially in heavy infestations. Rats are creatures of habit and will travel the same pathways to and from their burrows. They prefer tight, narrow and dark pathways that run along the side of buildings or fences but occasionally runways through tall grass may be seen. Signs of a rodent infestation may include any of the following: rat sightings, droppings, holes or burrows in the ground, tracks or pathways, and bite marks on wood, concrete, vegetables, or garbage containers.

Identification

Rodenticides and Traps

Rodenticides must be used with caution. To protect children and other animals (dogs, cats, and squirrels) use covered bait stations. Poisons must be clearly labelled and stored in a safe, dry place. Read the label and follow the instructions carefully. If using bait stations make sure both openings are free.

Traps should be placed in areas that are inaccessible to children and other animals. Traps must be placed near the burrow or on the pathway at a 90^o angle with the trigger towards a solid object. Bacon, fresh tomato or peanut butter can be used for bait. The bait can be tied to the trigger with a piece of thread.

Control

You may chose to control rats on your own using rodenticides purchased from your local hardware store. You can also hire a professional, licenced pest control company to do the work for you. Pest control companies are listed under Pest Control Services in the Yellow Pages.

If you chose to try to control the rats on your own, then follow these guidelines: 

1. Survey the area to determine the location of the burrows, possible food sources and areas of shelter.
2. Eliminate food sources by the proper handling and storage of garbage. Garbage should be wrapped in plastic bags and put into tight containers. These containers should have lids and be made of metal or heavy plastic. If plastic or wood containers are used, they must be routinely inspected for bite or gnaw marks since holes in the container may indicate the presence of rats.
3. Use poison baits and traps to control and eliminate the rats. Poison bait in plastic bags should be placed directly into the burrow and the opening covered. Read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Secure all bait stations and traps to prevent tampering and movement.
4. Some rats may become confused and appear to wander during the day because of the poison but rats will usually die in their burrows. Dead rodents should be picked up with a plastic bag or gloves and placed in a tightly sealed bag for garbage pick-up. Wash your hands with soap and warm, running water after handling dead rodents, traps, poisons, and droppings.
5. Check the burrows every few days and keep baiting and sealing them by covering the opening. The rats may be gone if the openings stay closed.
6. Eliminate rodent cover by removing rubbish and stacking items 30 cm (6”) off the ground. Long grass should be cut and bushes and shrubs should be cut or removed. This step must be done after all the rats are gone.
7. Rodent proof structures by ensuring that all doors and windows have tight seals. Repair any openings since they could develop into an entry point. Continue to store your garbage in a satisfactory manner.
8. Check the area occasionally for signs that the rats may have returned.