(November 11, 2008)  The City of Frisco offers residents ‘tips’ for tackling rodents in neighborhoods -- and reminds homeowners it’s common for neighborhood rodent populations to rise as temperatures drop.

“Because the weather is changing, rats and mice are seeking warmer habitats,” said Greg Carr, Code Enforcement and Animal Control Administrator.  “Residents who live near construction or newly cut fields or farmland may also experience an increase of rodents in their area since construction and plowing displaces the rats and mice from their natural habitats.”

Carr says there are several action steps homeowners and residents can take to deal with any influx of rodents.

• Hire exterminator and use consistent pest treatment
• Keep landscaping and grass cut
• Seal trash containers
• Do not leave pet food ‘out’ once your pet has eaten
• Pick up trash and debris
• Keep garage doors closed
• Seal holes, cracks and entryways around pipes with steel wool or wire screen.  (Holes as small as quarter inch will allow entry into a building)
• Repair water leaks and drips, which provide pests a water source

The City of Frisco does not provide rodent control programs on private property for several reasons. 

“City staff can’t enter private property to address rodent issues without permission,” said Carr.  “Plus, we (city staff) don’t place baits out in public areas because of the risk to pets and children.  That’s why we recommend homeowners contract with exterminators to devise a pest control program which best fits their own home and family needs.”

Carr adds, if one homeowner is baiting or treating for rodents -- but their neighbor isn’t taking the same action – the problem will merely move next door.  “A continuing abatement program involving all homeowners (or the entire HOA) is the best defense against rodent infestation,” said Carr.

Should you find dead rats or mice, animal control officers recommend you put the rodents in a sealed plastic bag and place in the trash.   Follow theses directions for cleaning areas where rodent ‘droppings’ are found: 

• Wear rubber, latex or vinyl gloves
• Soak area with disinfectant (water/bleach solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water)
• Remove waste with paper towels.  Do not sweep or vacuum area.  Such action can potentially spread viruses through the air.
• Wash exposed clothing and bedding
• Wash hands with soap and water after removing gloves
• Use professional service to clean heating and cooling ventilation systems

For more information about rats, mice and rodents common in our area, go to www.friscotexas.gov/animalcontrol