Prevention: The first line of defense against rodents by Katz

The already overabundant mice and populations are likely to increase even more because food supplies are more plentiful and accessible during this year’s mild early winter. Rodents, seeking shelter from the cold, get into an estimated 21 million homes and buildings in the U.S. every winter. Mice and rats often enter through small cracks and crevices. However, the real concern is that these pests can spread diseases and cause serious property damage once inside. Feces from mice and rats can spread bacteria, contaminate food and trigger allergic reactions. Once the fecal matter becomes dry, it can be hazardous to those who breathe it in. Moreover, rodent droppings can spread diseases and viruses, including: Hantavirus: A potentially life-threatening disease transmitted to humans by rodents. Infections occur through inhaling infected rodent urine or droppings. Symptoms include fatigue, fever and muscle aches, according to the CDC. People may also experience headaches, dizziness, chills and abdominal problems. Salmonellosis: A type of food poisoning spread by rodent feces, especially from eating contaminated food. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and abdominal pain. Each year, approximately 40,000 cases of Salmonella are reported in the U.S., according to WebMD. Rat-Bite Fever: A potentially fatal disease, spread by infected rodents or eating food contaminated by rodents. Symptoms usually occur 3-10 days after exposure and include fever, vomiting, headaches, rash and muscle pain. Besides health risks, rodents can cause significant damage to insulation in attics, can chew through wallboards, cardboard, wood and even electrical wiring. In fact, rodents cause up to 25% of house fires in the U.S. every year. With rapid reproduction rates, rodents can quickly go from being unnoticeable to causing a full-blown infestation. Homeowners should look at prevention as the first line of defense again these pests and take steps to keep them out of the home. Seal The Perimeter. Rats can squeeze through a hole the size of a quarter, and mice can fit through cracks much smaller than that. Use steel wool and caulk to seal up small cracks and crevices around doors, windows, pipes, vents, fireplaces and holes for electrical cables. Check for unfinished areas behind appliances and cabinets. Pay particular attention to openings where pipes meet the wall, such as under kitchen and bathroom sinks. Especially important in multifamily dwellings because rodents can easily move from unit to unit by traveling through the voids and entering behind appliances. Starve Them Out. Eliminate access to food by placing dry goods in airtight containers, keeping your kitchen clean and putting a lid on trash cans. It’s also a good idea to check under sinks, refrigerators, radiators and other areas that offer a heat source, as rodents tend to make nests in those areas. Another common nesting zone is dropped ceilings. Trap Them. Traditional spring-loaded mousetraps, also known as snap traps, are commonly recommended for do-it-yourself exterminators, with peanut butter as bait. Rodents tend to hug walls when traveling, so pest control experts suggest placing the trap with the bait end against the wall. Rats may need more aggressive measures - like putting fruit or bacon out for a few days to get the rat used to eating in that location before setting the actual trap. Call In The Pros. If all of this sounds daunting, or your efforts prove futile, it’s time to call a pest control company. Before signing a contract, however, be sure you understand the work necessary to solve the problem and what products the company plans to use. Find out if the fee covers a one-time job or subsequent visits if your problem isn’t solved on the first visit. Arthur Katz is CEO of Knockout Pest Control, Uniondale, N.Y.