Rat control is not a job for the squeamish or frightened. If that describes you, then grab your local newspaper or yellow pages and find a professional. Professional or amateur, you will need to begin with prevention.

Even the fearful can participate in the first mode of attack. Prevention starts with a good look around the yard. A clean yard is an excellent place to begin. Long grass, weeds, even the woodpile can make for a comfortable home. Check for holes in and under the foundation. Rodents also seek out those open trashcans. The dog food is tasty. Let's not forget about the cat food. Do you have a bird feeder or squirrel food? Just like us, rats need a constant food source. All exterior food and shelter sources need to be controlled.