Slough Borough Council keen to promote pest control services

Slough Borough Council [SBC] is helping people put pests to rest this summer by offering a range of services.

The council will treat everything – from rats and mice to bedbugs and fleas at a reasonable rate.

It is keen to promote the rat treatment services after a mild winter which increases the likelihood of rats surviving.

Also it was very wet due to the floods which can cause rats to leave drains and nest elsewhere.

The treatment involves three visits at a cost of £12 or £6 for pensioners and those on benefits.

Richard Palacio, neighbourhood enforcement team leader, said: “You shouldn’t try and treat rats yourself because the baits you use may be ineffective and could even increase the resistance of the rats to future baiting. So it’s best to leave it to the experts.

“If you notice a rat infestation in your house or garden, it is possible that adjacent properties and the surrounding area are affected too – in fact your neighbours might have already noticed the problem. But don’t wait for them to call first - let us know and we can work out the best strategy for eradicating them.”

SBC have released the following guidelines:

How to know if you have a rat problem

• You may hear them scurrying about in the loft or cavity wall spaces.
• You may notice rat droppings in your house or garden (usually about 12mm long).
• You will see evidence of gnawing.
• You will see burrows, smearing or nests.

How you can help

Rats want a good supply of food and a cosy place to nest.

• Don’t let rubbish or litter accumulate in your property.
• Don’t leave food - including food for pets and birds - out in the open for long periods of time.
• If you have fruit or berry trees, ensure fruit and berries are not left on the ground.
• Regularly turn compost heaps. Don’t leave them untended.
• Pick up dog mess.
• Get a treatment - don’t wait for your neighbour. Call 08444 828322 for the council’s pest control service.

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