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and careful examination is made on these occasions for any indication
of the presence of vermin. Suitable steps are taken, when required,
to prevent the introduction of vermin into clean houses by this means.
RATS AND MICE DESTRUCTION.
During the year 65 complaints of the presence of rats were received,
and all were given attention, necessitating 185 inspections. The premises
infested were chiefly embankments, private houses, shops, and premises
where sheds and refuse heaps formed suitable harbouring places.
The steps taken to exterminate the pests are the giving of advice
as to laying of poisoned baits or traps, and the rendering of the sheds
rat proof.
The necessary work may be undertaken, on request, by the Public
Health Department at a charge of 2s. 6d. per hour with a minimum
charge of 5s. 0d.
It has only been necessary to serve two statutory notices during the
year, the occupiers of infested premises being only too eager to take
advantage of the advice given. Many residents, however, do not yet
realise that occupiers themselves are responsible for the elimination
of these pests, although they are welcome to the advice which the Department
can give as to the best means to adopt.
SCHOOLS.
School Closure.—It was not necessary during the year to close
any public elementary school on account of the prevalence of Infectious
Disease amongst the scholars.
Infectious Disease contacts of school age are excluded from school
for a period of time which varies with the nature of the disease. The
Head Teachers of secondary schools, public elementary and private
schools are notified immediately any scholar attending their schools
develops or is in contact with an Infectious Disease. The advice of the
Medical Officer of Health as to further action is available should this be
requested, and disinfection is provided when required.
Medical Inspection.—The medical inspection of school children
is carried out by the Education Department of the Surrey County Council.
Sanitary Services.—The water supply, drainage and sanitary
accommodation in all public elementary schools were inspected from time
to time, and found to be satisfactory.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
It was not found necessary to institute legal proceedings during
the year to enforce the abatement of nuisances.
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