Rodent Awareness Week is an annual campaign organized by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) to help homeowners understand the real risks that come with rodent infestations — and how to prevent them.
Why Rodents Are a Year-Round Bay Area Problem
Here in the Bay Area, mild weather means rodents don’t hibernate. They’re active year-round, nesting in crawl spaces, attics, and behind kitchen walls. A single mouse can have up to 10 litters per year, with 5–6 babies each time. One rodent in your home can become dozens within months.
Signs You Might Have a Rodent Problem
- Scratching or rustling sounds in walls or ceilings, especially at night
- Tiny droppings (like small dark grains of rice) in cupboards, under sinks, or near food
- Chewed wires or gnawed packaging — rodents’ teeth never stop growing, so they chew constantly
- Grease marks along walls or baseboards where they travel regularly
- A musky, unpleasant odor in enclosed spaces like attics or garages
The Risks Beyond the “Gross Factor”
Rodents aren’t just a nuisance — they’re a genuine health and safety risk. Rats and mice can carry diseases including leptospirosis, salmonella, and hantavirus. They contaminate food and food preparation surfaces. Chewed electrical wiring is a known cause of house fires. And rodent droppings can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms, particularly in children.
What You Can Do Now
Rodent prevention focuses on two things: eliminating entry points and removing attractants.
- Inspect your home’s exterior for gaps around pipes, vents, and the foundation — seal anything larger than a dime
- Trim tree branches and shrubs that touch or overhang your roof
- Store food (including pet food) in sealed containers
- Keep garage doors closed when not in use
- Eliminate outdoor clutter like wood piles close to the structure
If you’re hearing or seeing signs of rodent activity, Rodent Awareness Week is the right time to act. Contact ATCO for a professional inspection and a treatment plan built around your specific situation.