City offers ‘Tips’ for Tackling Rodents as Temperatures Drop
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The following information is distributed from the City of Frisco's News
and Information service.
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CITY OFFERS 'TIPS' FOR TACKLING RODENTS AS TEMPERATURES DROP
(November 11, 2008) The City of Frisco offers residents 'tips' for
tackling rodents in neighborhoods -- and reminds homeowners it's common
for neighborhood rodent populations to rise as temperatures drop.
"Because the weather is changing, rats and mice are seeking warmer
habitats," said Greg Carr, Code Enforcement and Animal Control
Administrator. "Residents who live near construction or newly cut fields
or farmland may also experience an increase of rodents in their area since
construction and plowing displaces the rats and mice from their natural
habitats."
Carr says there are several steps homeowners and residents can take to
deal with any influx of rodents.
Hire exterminator and use consistent pest treatment
Keep landscaping and grass cut
Seal trash containers
Do not leave pet food 'out' once your pet has eaten
Pick up trash and debris
Keep garage doors closed
Seal holes, cracks and entryways around pipes with steel wool or wire
screen. (Holes as small as quarter inch will allow entry into a building)
Repair water leaks and drips, which provide pests a water source
The City of Frisco does not provide rodent control programs on private
property for several reasons.
"City staff can't enter private property to address rodent issues without
permission," said Carr. "Plus, we (city staff) don't place baits out in
public areas because of the risk to pets and children. That's why we
recommend homeowners contract with exterminators to devise a pest control
program which best fits their own home and family needs."
Carr adds, if one homeowner is baiting or treating for rodents -- but the
neighbor isn't taking the same action - the problem will merely move next
door. "A continuing abatement program involving all homeowners (or the
entire HOA) is the best defense against rodent infestation," said Carr.
Should you find dead rats or mice, animal control officers recommend you
put the rodents in a sealed plastic bag and place in the trash. Follow
theses directions for cleaning areas where rodent 'droppings' are found:
Wear rubber, latex or vinyl gloves
Soak area with disinfectant (water/bleach solution of one part bleach to
10 parts water)
Remove waste with paper towels. Do not sweep or vacuum area. Such
action can potentially spread viruses through the air.
Wash exposed clothing and bedding
Wash hands with soap and water after removing gloves
Use professional service to clean heating and cooling ventilation
systems
For more information about rats, mice and other rodents common in our
area, go to http://www.friscotexas.gov/animalcontrol
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