Protect Your Home From Mice

Mice may seem cute, however when residing in your home they can be hazardous to not only your health but also to the structure of your home.  Deer mice, which are most common in rural and semi-rural areas, can potentially carry Hantavirus, an infection that causes respiratory illness in humans.  According to the Government of Saskatchewan, as of December 31st, 2018, there have been 32 cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome reported in Saskatchewan since 1994, 10 of which resulted in death.  Mice love to chew and an electrical wire is a tasty treat along with drywall, pipes, wood, furniture, etc.  Several house fires are caused every year by exposed wiring that has been chewed by rodents and with one female mouse having 5-10 litters per year with an average of 6-8 babies each, an infestation can develop quickly.

With fall fast approaching rodents will be seeking a warm place for winter.  That warm place is often within your walls, attics and vehicles therefore prevention is the best method to protect your home. 

Perry Reavley, owner of Critter Gitter has several tips to prevent rodent infestation which starts with performing a thorough exterior inspection to locate areas that would allow a mouse or rat to access the dwelling.  Mice can enter a hole the size of a dime and although many people use steel wool, Reavley finds it breaks down rapidly when humidity is high so he suggests stainless steel, copper, tin, and industrial caulking to fill and cover any entrances.  Mice are excellent climbers; keep this in mind when seeking entry points.

Reavley recommends outside bait stations whenever possible to keep rodent populations in check, however, they must be properly maintained and monitored on a regular basis.  Refrain from placing poison inside vehicles and trailers as it will actually attract mice inside.

Keeping your yard clean and free of woodpiles, long grass, and clutter minimizes the chance that rodents will cause problems.  When landscaping your property, try to avoid using large rocks, mulch, or any other such materials that would provide habitat for rodents. Reavley recommends crusher dust, as it locks up nicely and any rodent activity is easily noticed.

There are numerous home remedies and electronic deterrents on the market, however, through Reavley’s experience, they usually provide little to no help keeping pests out of your home or business. “Although there are many ‘home remedies’ to keep mice at bay, we have never come across one that shows much promise,” Reavley says. “We have seen many times where mice will eat the Irish Spring soap or make nests out of fabric softener sheets.”



Written by:  Bobbi - Lynne McGarry