What are common signs of roof rat activity?
• Visual sightings on power lines, trees, bushes, patios, etc. • Hollowed citrus and other fruit • Rat droppings • Noises in the attic and walls • Gnawing sounds and gnaw marks around roof eaves • Damage to plastics and coverings on electrical wires • Unsettled pets What should I do if I see evidence on my property? • Call the Maricopa County Environmental Complaint Line at (602) 506-6616 or log your complaint at www.maricopa.gov/envsvc. Vector Control officers identify and test rat specimens throughout Maricopa County. How should I handle dead rats, rat droppings and nesting areas? • Use rubber gloves and wear a face mask. • Ventilate the affected area the night before cleanup by opening doors and windows. • Spray dead rats, droppings, nests and surrounding areas with a 10 percent bleach solution (one part bleach and nine parts water). Allow at least 15 minutes before removing. • Clean the affected area with paper towels or a mop. DO NOT SWEEP OR VACUUM. Double bag both the disinfecta
