Hurricanes and other severe storms can wreak havoc in the San Antonio, TX area. During heavy rains, people are often displaced along with many rodents. Rodents that managed to survive these disasters will find new places to live. It will take them some time to establish a new colony as they will need to reorganize the social hierarchy, locate food, water and shelter and get used to new surroundings to memorize their movements; but no mistake they will get to multiplying right away and once a new ecosystem has been established they will start to reproduce. Once the population starts to increase, so will interaction with humans. Rodents are destructive pests that can spread disease, contaminate food and destroy property. Rodent urine and dander has allergens that can cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma symptoms. More than 9,000 people are treated in ER departments each year for rodent bites. A Five Star Termite & Pest Control offer some helpful rodent control tips to deal with rodents after a flood.
Mice & Rat Prevention
Other than seeing rodents you may be dealing with them if your notice droppings, runways, rub marks and tracks. You may also notice signs they are nesting, gnawing marks, scraps of food, hair and noises. The best way to keep rodents away from your home is to remove sources of water, food and areas for shelter. You will need to implement environmental sanitation, proper food storage, rodent-proofing, trapping and poisoning. Store food and water in rodent-proof containers that are thick plastic, glass or metal with tight-fitting lids. The same rule goes for pet food and don’t leave uneaten pet food out. Only provide what your pet will finish. Don’t leave trash around longer than needed, keep the kitchen clean and don’t leave food out overnight. Rats can get into your home through an opening the diameter of a quarter and mice the diameter of a dime. These openings need to be sealed inside and out. You will need to use cement with 19-gauge or greater metal mesh screening, steel wool, heavy-duty caulk or sealant and expanding foam to seal any openings.
Can You Get Sick from Breathing in Mouse & Rat Urine & Droppings?
Cleaning around areas where rodents have been needs to be done with caution. This will reduce exposure to germs and diseases. Make sure you don’t stir up dust when you sweep or vacuum nesting material that will contain urine and droppings. Homes that have abandoned for a period of time may have rodents living in them. If you do have signs of rodents then you will need to clean thoroughly. Contaminated areas need to be disinfected before you start cleaning with a 1:10 chlorine solution. Let it soak for 10 minutes and use paper towels to remove it and throw any used paper towels in a sealed garbage bag.
Rodent Inspections, Control, Treatment & Removal in Cibolo, Universal City, New Braunfels, Alamo Heights, Converse, Seguin & San Antonio Texas
Dealing with rodents can be tricky. Rats and mice are different animals and the methods needed to control them will differ so it’s important to contact professionals. A Five Star Termite & Pest Control have lots of experience and can keep your home rodent free. Contact us today for any pest issues you’re dealing with.
