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6. Vermin.
(i) Bed Bugs.
During the year 42 complaints were received of infestation
of premises by bed bugs.
The number of houses and/or their contents found to be
infested was 20 (including 7 in the Council's possession).
In suitable cases, and on the request of tenant and owner,
the disinfestation of the premises and contents were
simultaneously carried out by the Department. In all other
cases the premises were disinfested by the owners, and the
contents by the tenants. In all necessary cases bedding was
steam disinfected by the Department.
The usual method of disinfestation insisted upon is to
strip as much woodwork from walls, etc., as possible, and
spray with contact fluid. Close supervision was made of
premises which had been disinfested, and tenants were given
suitable advice and instruction on methods of prevention
and destruction of vermin.
(ii) Rats and Mice.
970 visits were made to premises in connection with
rat infestation. 232 complaints were received, and at 321
premises infestation was remedied.
A whole-time rat-catcher has been engaged since 1941.
In addition to work carried out at owner's or occupier's
expense in dealing with rodents on private property, he
has also undertaken similar duties on the properties in the
possession of the Council, including sewers. During the year
he has paid 2,433 visits in connexion with the work of
eradicating rodents.
7. Food Inspection.
(i) Meat Inspection.
Only emergency slaughter of animals was carried out in
the District.
Two animals were killed in a slaughterhouse in the
District, and were examined.