Muscat: Plugging all holes in the home, laying traps to catch rats and mice, keeping the trash bin closed, disposing of all leftover food and ensuring that birdfeeders on the property are far from the house are some of the ways in which people can get rid of rodent infestations.
Issued by Muscat Municipality, the guidelines were published in view of public safety and raising the awareness of the people.
“The pest control division of Muscat Municipality plays a major role in reducing the numbers of pests and rodents in Muscat Governorate,” said the municipality in a statement. This is done “through periodic control programmes that target breeding grounds of pests and rodents.
“The division carries out constant surveys to identify the types and characteristics of pests and rodents, learning about their breeding places and behaviour and eventually implements awareness campaigns to educate people,” added the organisation.
“The municipality hence issues these guidelines to help citizens and residents to get rid of attractions that host pests and rodents.”
Other practices people can follow include ensuring all doors and windows are properly closed and installing a mesh to prevent entry of rodents. The municipality also urged the people to test their traps frequently, store grains in airtight containers and to cut the grass in their gardens on a regular basis.