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26
The free service to householders for the destruction of rats
and mice has been maintained. Charges are made in the case of
business premises on the satisfactory basis which was fully explained
in the Annual Report for 1950.
The soil sewer system was subjected to the annual 10% test
baiting resulting in two localised areas being found to be infested.
These were later subjected to initial and maintenance treatments.
The Council depots, sewage disposal works, piggeries and
open spaces received constant attention.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Under the provisions of Section 50 of the National Assistance
Act, 1948, it was not necessary during the year to arrange any
burials.
The depot and pigstyes at California Road have been practically
free from cricket infestation, but treatment was necessary
with respect to flies. Cricket infestation occurred at the Norbiton
Potteries pit and adjoining property which necessitated extensive
treatment of the area with insecticide.
As was mentioned in last year's report, the pit at Norbiton
Potteries, had become flooded and was coloured a yellowish green
due .to the presence of chromates (as Cr03). During the year the
chromate content fell from 480 parts per million to 200 parts per
million, but the oxidising and sterilising properties were still
sufficient to prevent the formation of objectionable odours which
usually arise from stagnant water.
Requests were received from a number of householders for
assistance in the destruction of wasps nests. Thirty-five wasps
nests and two hornets nests were destroyed. Some requests were
declined where the nests were found to be in positions not causing
real inconvenience. The department also gave advice or assistance
in dealing with bats, squirrels, beetles, slugs, ants, bees, moths,
flies, mites and pigeons.
By arrangement with the Surrey County Council the school
kitchens and canteens (seven in number) were thoroughly sprayed
at the appropriate time with D.D.T. solution as a deterrent against
insect infestation.