Owner may be aware that there has been an unusual infestation of mice in the complex lately which are finding their way into our homes through various means. Apparently we are not the only area where this problem is occurring. Needless-to-say these little creatures not only are a nuisance but can cause damage to your homes.
Since it come to our attention that several homes in our neighborhood have experienced problems with mice, and we want to provide important information to help prevent and address this issue.
Understanding the Problem: Mice infestations can pose significant risks to both property and health. These small rodents can cause extensive damage to homes by gnawing through walls, electrical wiring, insulation, and stored items. Additionally, mice can carry diseases, contaminate food supplies, and leave behind droppings that can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues.
How Mice Enter Homes: Mice are resourceful creatures that can enter homes through various entry points, including:
- Gaps or cracks in exterior walls and foundations
- Gaps around doors and windows
- Vents and utility openings
- Crawl spaces and attics
- Plumbing and utility lines
- Openings around pipes and wires
- Open garage doors
Preventive Measures: To prevent mice from entering your home and mitigate the risk of infestation, the following are some preventive measures:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect the exterior of your home for any gaps or cracks and seal them with weatherproof sealant or caulking. Pay close attention to areas around doors, windows, vents, and utility openings.
- Secure Food Sources: Store food items in airtight containers made of glass or metal to prevent access by mice. Clean up food spills promptly, and avoid leaving food out overnight.
- Declutter and Organize: Reduce clutter in and around your home to eliminate hiding spots for mice. Keep storage areas organized and minimize clutter in basements, attics, and garages.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your home clean and free of debris, as mice are attracted to areas with food crumbs and nesting materials. Regularly sweep, vacuum, and mop floors, and clean up spills immediately.
- Proper Waste Management: Dispose of garbage in tightly sealed bins, and avoid leaving trash bags outside for extended periods.
- Outdoor Maintenance: be mindful of vegetation and bushes near your home that provide hiding spots for mice. Keep outdoor furniture and other items stored away from the exterior walls of your home.
- Do not keep pet waste outside or in garage.
- Owners are also reminded to not have bird feeders in their back yards as they attract mice. Wills Creek Bylaw 5.14:
- A resident or visitor must not feed birds, rodents or other wild animals from any strata lot, limited common property, common property or land that is a common asset, including without limitation the Common Building and Facility. No bird feeders of any kind are permitted to be kept on balconies, strata lots, common property or land that is a common asset, including without limitation the Common Building and Facility.
- Professional Inspection: Consider hiring a professional pest control company to conduct a thorough inspection of your home and implement preventive measures as needed.
- Use of environmentally friendly pest control devices and electronic rodent repellents.
Reporting Infestations: If you suspect or encounter a mice infestation in your home, please report it immediately to our property manager so Council can monitor the problem and work with our outdoor pest control service provider.
We urge all homeowners to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing potential mice infestations. By working together and implementing preventive measures, we can effectively mitigate the risk of further infestation and ensure a safe and healthy living environment for our community.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
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