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SECTION F. - RODENT CONTROL.
PETROLEUM STORAGE. ETC„
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE BY PESTS ACT 1949
The table on page 43 summarises certain rodent control work which was
carried out during 1960.
The inspection and treatment of sewers, and of the Corporation's Depots,
etc., was undertaken in collaboration with the Borough Engineer and Surveyor's
Department. Each year 10% of the total manholes in the whole sewer system are
test baited, and maintenance treatment is carried out on these, and other manholes
known to be infested, twice in each year. It is pleasing to record that
there has been a steady decrease in rat infestation in sewers over the years,
the figures for 1960 being 189 manholes baited, and 26 showing evidence of
infestation.
The Health Department continued to deal with rodent treatment and disinfestation
work in Surrey County Council owned property within the Borough,
including schools, school canteens and river banks, on a contract basis.
During 1960 no legal action was required to be taken under the provisions
of the Act, and this is an indication of the co-operation received from householders
and business people.
PEST CONTROL
During the year 1960, 153 complaints were received concerning insect pests,
and the following is a list of the infestations dealt with;-
Woodwonn 3
Beetles 6
Cockroaches 4
Bed bugs 8
Ants 6
Maggots 1
Fleas 2
Bees 8
Flies 6
Hornets 2
Moths 1
Wasps 106
The incidence of wasps was again generalised during 1960, and it is
considered that the service provided by the Department in the destruction of
wasps nests plays a great part in the Council's Food Hygiene policy.
In addition, 6 complaints were received regarding squirrels, pigeons and
rabbits, and these were referred to the Pests Officer of the Ministry of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food at Guildford.
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