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144
All defective drainage systems should be repaired and,
if necessary, relaid, and all connections to the sewers
properly cut off.
(b) Rat Destruction.
This may be carried out by any of the following methods, but it has
been found that the best results are obtained when the methods of attack
are changed from time to time:—
(1) Trapping.
There are many varieties of traps:—
(a) The Nipper, or Break-back trap.
(b) The Steel Gin trap.
(c) Wire Cage traps.
(d) Dust-bin trap—fitted with hinged cover which tilts
under the weight of a rat—suitable for sewers and
warehouses.
(e) Varnish and bird-lime traps.
A certain amount of care and experience is required in
setting any of these traps if good results are to be obtained.
It is important to remember that the baits used should be
different from the food the rats usually obtain and that an
occasional change of bait is recommended.
(2) Poisoning.
The commonest poisons used may be divided into two groups:
In the first group deadly poisons are used such as Phosphorus,
Strychnine and Arsenic, but are in my opinion, too dangerous
for general use. They may, however, be employed with
success in sewers where the risk to humans and animals is
very remote.
The Red Squill and Barium Carbonate preparations are
suitable for general use.
In any case, poisoned baits should be laid only by responsible
people.