Health Tip: Rats Can Be a Health Hazard

(HealthDay News) -- If you live in an area where rats may frequent, here are some rodent-control tips from the District of Columbia Department of Health:

• Store garbage in metal or heavy plastic containers with tight lids.
• Remove weeds and debris near buildings and in yards; don''t give rats a place to hide.
• Store opened food in metal or glass containers with tight lids.
• Don''t leave extra pet food out.
• Sweep up litter and trash inside and outside your home.
• Use mortar to seal any cracks and holes in your basement and house.
• Keep outside doors closed, and use metal trim to prevent rodents from gnawing and entering underneath.

-- Felicity Stone

Last Updated: Sept. 30, 2005