Rodents may be a common pest all year long, but did you know infestations spike during the fall? With it being Rodent Awareness Week, it’s important to understand why rats and mice are so common in October and how to prevent them from becoming a problem in your home. When summer ends and the weather starts to cool down, rodents will try to make their way inside to escape the cold. Unfortunately, rats and mice are notorious for their ability to squeeze through the smallest of openings and can get inside easily. To prevent their chances of succeeding, read on to learn some of Rentokil’s top tips for keeping them out!

4 Ways to Keep Rats and Mice Out

Rats are a gross sight that no homeowner wants to deal with. To save yourself from the frustration of cleaning up after a rodent infestation, it’s important to know how to prevent them in the first place!

Locate and seal any cracks or crevices: Inspect your foundation, doors, and windows for any gaps, and patch them up accordingly.
Install screens over chimneys and vents: Rats and mice may feel the warm air escaping your chimney and vents, and make their way indoors. Properly cover your vent systems and chimney.
Store food in airtight containers: Rats and mice will seek out food inside of homes. Always keep food stored in secured containers and clean up spills after meals.
Keep a clean, mess-free home: Rodents are a big fan of clutter, and are attracted to messy basements and attics. Always clean up messes and avoid excess clutter.

Are Rodents Dangerous?

Everyone knows rodents can be gross, but did you know they are dangerous as well? Rats and mice can spread bacteria, contaminate food, and even cause allergic reactions in humans. Some of the diseases that can be spread by their feces include hantavirus, salmonellosis, and even the bubonic plague (as rare as it is). They are also harmful in that they can cause serious structural damage with their gnawing and nesting habits. Bottom line: For the safety of you, your family, and your home, rodents have no business inside!

Get Rid of Rodents Fast

If you’ve done all you can to prevent rodents from getting in your property, they still may make their way indoors. As soon as you see a rat or mouse inside, it’s time to call a professional. A professional pest control company such as Rentokil can not only get rid of any rodent problem you have, but prevent future infestations from forming.