10/15/2019
Things you can do to prevent rat infestations: (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/alaska_maritime/what_we_do/rat_free_ship.html)
Eliminate sources of food and water.
Keep trash and food in metal or other rodent-proof containers.
Boxed or bagged food attracts rodents that will smell and chew through packaging.
Clean up piles of debris that can shelter rodents.
Seal holes between areas that give them access. ALERT - Rats go through holes as small as 1/2-inch across. Mice go through 1/4-inch holes. Steel wool is an effective material to plug small holes because rodents will not chew through it.
Keep onshore facilities as clean and rodent-free as possible.
Warehouses and docks should also have a rodent control program.
Use line guards on ship-to-shore lines. These can help keep rats from walking aboard.
Use traps - Out-smart the Rats - Catch Them! Use a combination of snap traps, sticky boards, and poison bait boxes for best results. Place traps in dark areas against walls (along their travel paths). Place traps in areas of food, garbage, and freight storage. SET TRAPS with TRIGGER NEXT TO WALL. A double set (side by side) boosts your chances for success. Regularly check the traps to make sure they are set, in good condition, and baits fresh. Surprisingly, moldy bait is less effective. Extend the life of snap traps by wire brushing and oiling springs if rusty.
When you catch a live rodent, NEVER throw it overboard. They are excellent swimmers and may reach land.
There are some good tips here that can be useful for boat owners as well:
https://realfarmacy.com/mice-camper/?fbclid=IwAR2lLZgSS85QDm2djAIdKgUKwQ7tyW7cxiiNlRnSSQ00WVOzc9GC8Ug6qoY
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