There is a dead mouse in my house–WHAT NOW??
This might sound like an enormous and unpleasant task, but we have simplified it to a 10-step process!
Before we get into the explaining the steps, we need to mention that it’s important that you NEVER handle a mouse or rat directly – when it’s alive or dead. Why? Because rats and mice can transmit a number of diseases to humans.
With that in mind, if you stick to our 10-step process if becomes easy to keep you and your family safe while disposing of dead rodents.
How do I dispose of a dead mouse?
A mouse trapped in any of our Pest Store rodent bait station, such as the Hidden Kill Mouse Trap should never be touched directly. Instead follow these 10 steps:
- Step 1 – Put on a pair of rubber gloves.
- Step 2 – Spray the dead mouse and the immediate area with a disinfectant or bleach-and-water mixture. If you don’t want to do this, you can use our Pest Store Odour Remover bag, that will get rid of any dead rodent smells.
- Step 3 – Place the mouse in a plastic bag. You may save the trap for future use or throw it out as well. Note to remember, if you decide to re-use the trap, always wash the trap first before use, to remove any dead rodent smells or urine that could lead other rodents away from the trap.
- Step 4 – Place any mouse-soiled objects in the bag including feces, nesting material or food.
- Step 5 – Seal the bag. Do not push out the extra air from the bag, doing so may spread germs, bacteria or viruses that the mouse is carrying.
- Step 6 – Place the sealed bag in another bag and seal it, too.
- Step 7 – Throw the bag in the trash.
- Step 8 – Wash your gloved hands with soap and water or spray disinfectant on them.
- Step 9 – Remove gloves and throw them into the trash.
- Step 10 – Wash your hands again after removing the gloves.
Where can I release live mice?
If you used a live catch mouse trap, such as the Pest Store Livecatch, you should try to think ahead of a few places where you will be able to release them. For example, look for an uninhabited area (like a field) that is at least 3 kilometers from your home, so they won’t be able to find their way back.
Also, don’t release them in an area where they can become someone else’s problem. With that in mind, try and avoid releasing them near homes, farms, businesses, parks or an abandoned building. Instead, look for areas with lots of vegetation and cover.
For more information on any of the Pest Store products mentioned in this blog, go visit our website on www.peststore.co.za.