Rodents include mice and rats.

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During the chilly winter months, most people seek refuge in the warmth of their homes, but they are not alone. From October through February, rodents, often take shelter in homes, causing potential hazards to both health and property.

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Rodents invade an estimated 21 million homes in the United States every winter and are a considerable health and property nuisance. Rodents can enter homes through almost any opening. Once inside, rodents can cause severe damage as they can chew through wallboards, cardboard, wood and even electrical wiring, increasing the potential risk of a fire.

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently proposed limiting the use of several rodent bait products to certified applicators who have had sufficient training to know when and how to use these products in order to limit risks. Although homeowners will be prohibited from purchasing these rodenticides, licensed pest professionals will be allowed to purchase and apply these products to meet critical public health needs.

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