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23
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE BY PESTS ACT, 1949
Complaints numbering 230 regarding rats and mice were received from all
parts of the district and investigated.
The constant action which has been taken to destroy rodents during recent
years has caused a diminution in the severity of the infestations found in the district
and in no case was a major infestation discovered. Rats are such prolific breeders,
however, that it is in the public's interest to report to the public health department
as soon as they suspect the presence of rodents in or on their premises. A free
service is provided for the destruction of rodents in private dwellings.
In several cases it was found that defective drains and sewers were associated
with rat infestations and the keeping of animals contributed to the number
of infestations. When considered necessary the drainage systems of premises
were tested with smoke and colour and all defects found made good.
As in previous years, the foul-water sewers were treated on two occasions,
prebait and poisoned bait being laid in the manholes and side entrances. In June,
339 manholes were baited and pre-bait takes recorded in 99. The figures for the
December treatment were 321 manholes baited and pre-bait takes recorded in 120.
One full-time rodent operative is employed and the following is a summary
of the work carried out by him at premises in the district:—
Inspections and re-inspections made 3,102
Premises treated for rats 281
Premises where rat poison bait taken 235
Premises re-treated for rats 186
Estimated number of rats poisoned 683
Number of rats trapped 10
Premises treated for mice 97
Premises re-treated for mice 59
It was necessary to treat some premises on three or more occasions and
the total treatments for the destruction of rodents numbered 760.
RAG FLOCK AND OTHER FILLING MATERIALS ACT, 1951
The object of the Act is to secure the use of clean filling materials in
upholstered articles and other articles which are stuffed or lined. Three
premises are registered in connection therewith.
Samples of materials used at each of the registered premises were obtained
and the prescribed Analyst under the Act reported that the tests showed the
samples to be satisfactory and complied with the requirements of the regulations.
MOVABLE DWELLINGS
The camping and caravan site of nearly three acres in the Crystal
Palace Grounds established in 1951 continues to be occupied.
Suites of waterclosets and lavatory basins are provided in a brick building
on the site, and there are suitable arrangements for the collection and disposal
of refuse.
Periodic inspections were made of the camp and no cause for complaint
arose during the year.
PET ANIMALS ACT, 1951
This Act came into force on the 1st April 1952, and regulates the sale of pet
animals. Licences were granted to three applicants subject to conditions laid
down by the Council, these conditions being based on those recommended by
the R.S.P.C.A. No contraventions were observed.