Rats are a problem both inside and outside homes, gaining entry through small holes and gaps and chewing on electrical wires to create short circuits. They spread diseases such as salmonella and typhus and contaminate food not properly stored or cooked. They also damage gardens, shrubbery and fruit trees. They can chew through wooden fence posts and soffits, and they make their nests in the attic, under porches, in sheds or behind cluttered items.

The best method to Safe Pest Control rats is through an integrated pest management (IPM) program. This involves sanitation and exclusion, which remove available food, water and shelter to minimize rodent populations. This may include exterior sanitation to prevent rats from entering buildings, including screening vents and installing door sweeps and weather stripping. Interior sanitation includes storing foods in tightly sealed containers and keeping garbage receptacles closed. It is also important to keep vegetation thinned out and trimmed away from building foundations, and to maintain a well-mowed lawn.

Understanding the Dangers of Rat Infestations: The Importance of Rat Pest Control

If sanitation and exclusion methods are not adequate, traps or rodenticide baits can be used to control large populations of rats. Bait stations should be placed around the property, with fresh bait provided on a regular basis. It is often a good idea to switch types of bait every month to prevent the development of resistance. Use caution when using rodenticides, and always follow label instructions when handling them. Alternatively, you can hire a professional pest control company to take care of rat problems without harming your family and pets.