Dealing with a Rat Infestation: Strategies for Homeowners in Alberta Canada
Imagine the horror of waking up to the realization that a swarm of hungry rats is hungry for your flesh while you are in the bathroom. The situation can be terrifying. But what can you do to protect yourself and your family in such an alarming scenario?
Immediate Escape and Calling for Help
The first instinct might be to flee the scene. Staying overnight in a hotel or renting a cat are two radical but effective solutions. However, more immediate actions include squeezing out of the window to call a professional exterminator like Billy. Or, for those with a preference for dramatic flair, setting the house on fire. Another dramatic option is to send in an army of bloodthirsty cats or scream until you pass out, repeating until help arrives. However, these methods should be considered as a last resort.
A Rat-Free Haven
Residents of Alberta, Canada often consider themselves blessed, as our province is officially classified as rat-free by the Globe and Mail. However, this does not mean that rat infestations are unheard of. However, the presence of cats can significantly reduce the likelihood of a rat infestation. Our two cats, a small grey female and a large black male, are adept at keeping rodents at bay. They always leave the remains of rats, mice, and moles on our bedroom floor. I often joke and warn them, “You’d better come. If the rats get me, there’s nobody here who knows how to use the can opener.”
Rat-Free Methods to Protect Yourself
When faced with a rat invasion, staying calm and utilizing simple, effective methods is key. Opening the door and fleeing to the freezer to dump a bag of frozen peas everywhere is a straightforward approach. Rats love peas, so they should be distracted long enough for you to evacuate safely.
If you have a pet rat or cats, they might do the job for you. However, as a precaution, you can also adopt a dog to help keep the rodent population in check. Dogs have the added benefit of being able to chase the pests away and alert you to any potential danger.
Immediate and Safe Solutions
While you’re dealing with the rats, you can take immediate action to ensure your safety. Closing the bathroom door and using the sturdy metal toilet-tissue holder as a makeshift club is a practical defensive measure. If you have a cell phone and a neighbor to call for assistance, this immediate help is crucial. Additionally, you can contact your city’s animal control department to report the extreme rat invasion. They typically respond quickly to reports of pest infestations and will provide necessary assistance.
Quick and Effective Solutions
Another clever and safe solution is to flood the bathroom with a few inches of water. When the rats are almost at the toilet, toss in a plugged-in and running hair dryer. The hot water and steam from the hair dryer will effectively cook the rats, ensuring your safety without causing any electrical hazards. The porcelain toilet seat acts as a barrier, insulating you from the dangers of the rat infestation.
Dealing with a rat infestation can be extremely stressful, but with the right knowledge and preparedness, you can protect yourself and your home. Consider your options and act quickly to ensure your safety. Rat infestations might be rare in Alberta, Canada, but it’s always better to be prepared.