As winter arrives, the Village of Skokie is encouraging residents to take steps to prevent rat infestations in their homes and yards. With colder temperatures, rats are more likely to seek out warmth and food sources near residential areas.
The Village has outlined several measures for residents to make their properties less attractive to rodents. These include sealing garbage and compost containers, removing outdoor food sources such as bird seed and pet food, eliminating standing water, clearing away clutter or overgrown vegetation that could provide shelter, and sealing any entry points into buildings with sturdy materials like steel wool or metal mesh.
“Rats are drawn to three main resources: food, water and shelter. When weather turns cold, reducing access to these essentials becomes one of the most effective forms of prevention,” the Village stated.
Residents living in buildings with four units or fewer are advised to report sightings of burrows or rat activity by completing a release-of-liability form at www.nomorerats.org so inspectors can respond appropriately.
“Why this matters: Rats don’t hibernate — they adapt. Winter can drive them indoors or closer to buildings in search of warmth and supplies. Preventive steps now can reduce the likelihood of infestations, help avoid property damage, and minimize public-health risks,” according to the statement from the Village.
Village officials report that their ongoing rat control efforts have resulted in a drop in overall cases by more than 50 percent compared with last year.
The Village urges anyone who observes rats or suspects burrows on their property to report it promptly through www.nomorerats.org or by emailing nomorerats@skokie.org.
