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28
Rat destruction was carried out at all the places affected and
by this means the whole area was systematically dealt with
as one unit instead of in dribs and drabs. Whereas before
this operation, complaints had been regularly received, by the
end of the year only one revisit was requested.
Just prior to the above the whole of the sewers in the
area were test-baited, but except in one isolated spot where
extensive war damage had occurred, negative results were
obtained. Provided householders are now careful either to
take efficient action themselves immediately any signs of reinfestation
occur or will let me know, the area should now give
little trouble for some time. 1 found occupiers generally eager
to co-operate and this contributed greatly to the success of the
campaign.
During the year the area covered by the Refuse Destructor,
Sewage Disposal Works, Pigstyes and Controlled tips received
thorough attention and the results achieved were excellent.
Constant liaison is maintained with officers of the
Infestation Branch of the Ministry of Food. I have always
found them most helpful, not only with practical advice, but
in the loan of apparatus required for special problems.
Regular meetings are held in the areas of different authorities
at which difficulties are ironed out and explanations given by
officers of the Ministry of Food. The damage done yearly to
foodstuffs alone and the potential danger of the spread of the
most serious diseases renders the subject of the greatest Public
Health importance, and every penny and every bit of energy
spent in their extermination is worth while provided it is
expended in a planned and scientific manner.
MISCELLANEOUS.
A number of vacant plots in the district continued to be
dumping places for all kinds of rubbish and this produced
very untidy conditions. In the worst instances the rubbish was
cleared and disposed of by the Council, but it was not long
before similar conditions again prevailed. So long as these
sites remain, certain householders will use them for dumping