Rat Infestation Crisis in Folkestone: What You Need to Know

Recently, Folkestone has found itself facing an increasing number of rat infestations across the town. Rats often thrive in neglected or dusty areas, which can serve as foraging paths and nesting sites.

This crisis has become a growing concern for both residents and local businesses, as these vermin can cause significant damage to properties by gnawing on various materials, leading to both structural issues and contamination of food.

They also pose significant health risks. Understanding why this infestation is happening, what it means for you, and how to tackle the issue effectively is essential for keeping your business or home safe.

Why is Folkestone Facing a Rat Infestation Crisis?

Several factors have contributed to the rise in rat infestations in Folkestone, and it’s essential to understand them to prevent further problems. Rats are particularly prevalent in urban areas where they find ample food and shelter. Among the primary causes are:

Urbanisation and population growth have led to increased waste and reduced natural habitats for rats, driving them closer to human settlements. Identifying and sealing potential entry points is crucial to prevent rats from entering properties and exacerbating the infestation problem.

1. Urbanisation and Population Growth

As Folkestone grows and develops, more buildings and infrastructure are being added to the area. With urbanisation, rats find more opportunities to infiltrate homes, commercial buildings, and public spaces. Increased construction and development can disturb rats’ natural habitats, causing them to seek shelter in new locations.

Understanding different rat species and their behaviors is crucial for effective pest management. The increase in the local population also means more waste is produced, providing rats with an abundant food source.

2. Poor Waste Management and Littering

Another significant contributor to the rat infestation in Folkestone is the accumulation of waste. Keeping homes and gardens free from debris can minimise nesting opportunities for rats. When rubbish bins are not emptied regularly or improperly disposed of, it creates an ideal environment for rats to thrive. In some areas, fly-tipping (illegal dumping of waste) has exacerbated the problem, providing a consistent food source for the vermin.

If waste management practices aren’t adhered to, the problem will only worsen. Residents are encouraged to contact their local council for replacements of damaged bins and for tips on waste management to reduce the risk of attracting rodents.

3. Warmer Weather Conditions

Rats are particularly active during warmer months, and the increasing temperatures due to climate change are causing an uptick in their activity. Warmer weather allows rats to breed and expand their colonies at a faster rate. During the winter, they seek warmth, and homes, businesses, and local restaurants become prime targets for seeking shelter.

4. Lack of Pest Control

Another factor contributing to the rat crisis is the delay in addressing pest problems. In many cases, people may not recognise the early signs of an infestation, allowing the problem to grow and spread. Without proper pest management, rats are able to establish nests in hidden places, such as inside walls, attics, or basements, making it difficult to detect and eliminate them.

The Impact of the Rat Infestation on Folkestone’s Community

The rat infestation is not just an inconvenience, it has serious implications for the health and safety of residents and local businesses in Folkestone. Rats can transmit various diseases to humans, making them a significant public health concern.

Businesses facing a pest problem, particularly rodent infestations, can suffer legal and reputational damage. Under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949, property owners are obligated to manage these issues, and visible pest problems can tarnish a business’s reputation and lead to financial penalties.

1. Health Hazards

Rats are known to carry a number of diseases, such as salmonella, leptospirosis, and hantavirus. Their urine and droppings can contaminate surfaces, food, and water, putting residents and business owners at risk. These diseases can be transmitted through direct contact with infected rats or contaminated environments, and children or elderly individuals may be particularly vulnerable. Weil's disease, a severe form of leptospirosis, is another serious health risk associated with rat infestations.

2. Property Damage

Rats are notorious for chewing through wires, insulation, and wood. Rat holes near solid structures are indicative of a nest, suggesting that these sturdy constructions provide ideal shelter for the rodents. In both commercial and residential properties, rats can cause significant structural damage. They have been known to chew through electrical wires, which can lead to fires.

Additionally, rats will gnaw on pipes, leading to water leaks, and they can damage furniture, walls, and even stored goods. The gnawing behavior of rats is particularly destructive, as it continuously wears down materials and can indicate larger problems that could escalate if not addressed.

3. Damage to Local Businesses

Local businesses, especially those in the food industry, are particularly vulnerable to pest infestations. A rat sighting in a restaurant or food store can cause immediate damage to a business’s reputation and may lead to fines or even forced closure. Moreover, rat infestations can disrupt daily operations and result in costly repairs and loss of stock.

Qualified pest controllers play a crucial role in effectively managing infestations and controlling rats, using specialised methods and rodenticides that are not available to the public. Safety precautions should be taken when using poisons to avoid harm to non-target animals and children.

4. Increased Council and Community Costs

The rat infestation also places a strain on local authorities, as increased pest control measures, such as rodent baiting and monitoring, need to be funded. The need for more regular waste collection and better waste management strategies can result in higher costs for the community. This impacts local residents and businesses alike.

Consulting the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) can provide expert advice and information for controlling specific pests.

How Can You Identify Signs of a Rat Infestation?

Early detection is key to addressing a rat problem before it spirals out of control.

Here are some signs that may indicate you have rats in your home or business:

• Droppings: Rat droppings are black and shiny, typically 12-15 mm long. They are often found in hidden areas, such as behind appliances or in dark corners, where rats have been active, such as along walls or near food sources.

• Gnaw Marks: Rats will gnaw on wood, plastic, and wires to file down their teeth. Look for fresh gnaw marks around food containers, furniture, and electrical wiring.

• Nests: Rats will often create nests out of shredded materials like paper, insulation, or cloth. Look in hidden corners, attics, basements, or behind appliances. Common signs such as established rat runs, burrows, and hidden nests serve as critical indicators of rat presence.

• Foul Odours: A persistent, musty smell may indicate the presence of rats, particularly if their nests are located in hidden or enclosed spaces.

• Scratching Noises: Rats are nocturnal creatures, so hearing scratching or scurrying sounds at night could be a sign of an infestation in your walls or ceiling.

What Can You Do to Combat a Rat Infestation in Folkestone?

If you suspect a rat infestation in your property, it’s important to act quickly to prevent it from escalating. Trimming overgrown vegetation can help reduce potential nesting sites for rats. Identifying and sealing potential entry points is crucial, as even small gaps can allow rats to enter.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Seal Entry Points

Rats can enter through very small gaps, so check your property for any cracks or holes in walls, windows, doors, and pipes. Identifying and sealing rat holes can prevent rats from entering your property. Seal them with strong materials like steel wool or caulk to prevent rats from entering.

Additionally, use tight fitting lids on containers to prevent rats from accessing food sources, as sealing foodstuffs in metal or glass containers with these lids can deter rats from contaminating food.

2. Remove Food and Water Sources

Make sure all food is stored in sealed containers, and avoid leaving pet food or food scraps out overnight. Protect compost heaps with wire mesh to prevent rats from digging in and nesting. Ensure that your home is clean, especially in kitchens, to eliminate easy access to food sources.

3. Regular Waste Collection

Ensure that your waste is collected regularly and stored in tightly sealed bins. Keeping gaps around sheds sealed can help prevent rats from entering and nesting. The local council plays a crucial role in ensuring regular waste collection to prevent rat infestations. Avoid letting rubbish sit in outdoor areas for extended periods.

4. Call a Professional Pest Control Service

Hiring a professional pest control service, such as Folkestone Pest Control, is the best way to eliminate a rat infestation. Professional pest control services can effectively rid your property of rats and prevent future infestations.

Experts have the tools, experience, and knowledge to effectively deal with rat populations and prevent future problems. Professional pest control services are crucial for controlling rats, as they use specialised methods and rodenticides not available to the public. Read more about the rat infestation crisis in Folkestone.

Why You Need Professional Help

While DIY solutions like traps and baits may work for small problems, professional pest control services offer comprehensive solutions that target the root causes of infestations. Professional pest control services use poison responsibly to avoid harm to non-target animals and the environment.

Folkestone Pest Control can identify entry points, assess the scale of the infestation, and provide long-term pest management solutions to ensure rats do not return.

Conclusion: Act Now to Prevent a Larger Crisis

The rat infestation crisis in Folkestone highlights the importance of taking pest control seriously. Taking preventative measures can protect both your property and the environment from the negative impacts of rat infestations. By staying vigilant, maintaining clean and sealed properties, and enlisting professional pest control services, you can ensure that rats do not become a permanent issue in your home or business.

Protecting your property by taking preventative measures against rat infestations is crucial to avoid long-term damage and maintain a safe environment.

If you’re facing a rat infestation in Folkestone or want to take preventative measures, contact Folkestone Pest Control today for expert advice and services.