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19
Rodent Control
The control of rat and mice infestations in accordance
with the methods advocated by the Ministry of Agriculture
and Fisheries was continued, although great difficulties were
encountered for a large part of the year due to statf shortage.
The Council's refuse tip was kept under observation and any
sign of rat activity deal with immediately.
During the twelve months ended on the 31st March,
1955, the complaints received of infestations numbered 191,
and these together with cases discovered by members of the
staff involved the inspection of 835 premises. Rat infestations
were found at 155 premises and mice infestations at 51
premises. Of these 166 treatments were undertaken by the
department, the remaining 40 being carried out by the
occupiers.
When treatments are carried out by this department on
behalf of the occupiers, a standard charge of five shillings
is made in the case of private dwellings, and the full cost of
the treatment is recovered in the case of business premises.
Where the occupiers elect to carry out the treatment themselves,
advice and supervision is given to ensure that the
treatment is effective.
Arrangements were continued with the Middlesex
County Council for this department to carry out any rodent
control works necessary on the portions of the Duke of
Northumberland's River and the River Crane in the area.
Rag Flock and Other Filling Materials Act, 1951
There are two premises registered under this Act, where
filling materials are used. Four inspections were made.
Disinfestation
Five premises were found to be infested with bed bugs
and were disinfested :
Council houses infested 1
Other houses infested 4
The method of disinfestation normally employed was
spraying with contact insecticides incorporating D.D.T., and
this work was carried out by the department.