The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, is reminding households and business establishments to continue to take preventative measures against rodents.
Rodent control is managed by the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour in conjunction with the community. In February the CPS had appealed to the community to take measures in order to keep the rodent population under control.
Rodents are a fact of life but we can reduce their numbers by working together in protecting our homes by making them rodent proof. The success of this and any program is dependent upon collaboration between government, citizens, and the community at large. Based on the fact rodents can spread infectious diseases it is recommended to keep the rodent population at a minimum and away from your homes. You can help keep rodents away from your home by depriving them of shelter and food by following a few simple guidelines.
Keep your entire premises clean. Seal garbage in tightly covered metal or heavy rubberized containers; don’t use containers like bags or boxes. All garbage should be bagged before it is placed in your garbage bins, a sealed container. Drain and wrap food waste before putting it into can. Keep cans at least 18 inches off the ground and keep can surroundings clean.
Store food items in rat-proof areas and/or into containers. Don’t store food in the garage or outside. Clean up any spilled food immediately. Don’t leave out uneaten pet food. Clean dog droppings up daily. Don’t put bird seed on the ground; rodents will get it first. If you use a bird feeder, the area under and around it must be kept free of seeds and hulls.
Seal cracks or breaks in your foundation and repair holes in the floor, around pipes, screen doors, windows, vents and other openings into your home to prevent rodents from entering. Outside steps should be made out of concrete/masonry. Keep the space beneath wooden steps clean.
Keep all stored material at least 18" off the floor. Set furniture and appliances flush with the wall or far enough away so that the space between them and the wall can be easily cleaned. Keep all areas clean; keep the rodent outside, rodent proof your home.
For more information on eliminating rodents, call 542-2078/23003