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close to the ground, all buildings of this type should be kept at least
nine inches above the ground so as to enable a dog or cat to get
under. Sheds very close to the ground afford comfortable nesting
places for rats and mice.
Treatment of Sewers
The inspection and baiting of sewers is under the supervision
of the Highways Superintendent.
This work is usually carried out at regular intervals on a block
basis specified areas of the borough being treated at one time.
Where, however, it is proved that certain house drains are infested,
treatment of the sewers in that area are carried out on request
from this department.
(viii) Disinfestation of Insects and Pests
Numerous complaints were dealt with during the year concerning
insect nd pests that invade homes, shops and stores.
Insects can have a variety of effects on the human race or its
environment, they can destroy or harm food, ruin furniture, materials
and works of art, cause damage to timbers, endanger health or just
cause annoyance.
The present modes of travel, whereby any destination can be
reached in a relatively short time is a great asset to the public, but
at the same time it has brought its problems, as during recent years
new species of insects have been introduced to this country from
abroad, either in cargoes or luggage.
The variety of species of insect pests is always increasing, and
identification becomes more difficult, however, we are fortunate in
being able to send species either to the Natural History Museum or
to one of the firms that manufactures "pesticides," for identification.
From these sources, in addition to the identification, we can learn
the life history, country of origin, whether the insect is harmful or
not and the best control measures to use.
It is evident that the public are becoming more insect conscious,
by the number of requests that are made for assistance to eradiate
various insects.
Apart from the housefly which is the most common of household
pests, those that we are mainly called upon to deal with are,
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