Tips for rodent proofing your property

Oak Parkers may notice increased rodent activity outdoors during the summer and fall. Oak Park Public Health Department officials remind residents that the community can work together to control the rodent population, though it will never be entirely eliminated. There are many steps homeowners, renters and businesses can take to prevent rodent infestations, including managing refuse containers by keeping lids closed, not overfilling containers and ensuring bags of refuse are not ripped open when placing them in containers. Other steps residents can take to prevent rodent infestations include removing exterior clutter where rats like to burrow by keeping fence lines clear, removing pet feces and storing firewood away from exterior walls and off the ground. Find more ways to rodent proof your property on the Village website at www.oak-park.us/rodentproofing.

West Nile Virus threat continues…While mosquitoes are likely to become less active as summer heat diminishes, the threat of West Nile Virus could continue as late as mid-October. Public health officials urge residents not to become complacent and to continue taking precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes. The most effective precautions include wearing long sleeves and pants, limiting time spent outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active and wearing insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Residents can also eliminate mosquito breeding grounds on their property by getting rid of standing water in places like birdbaths, buckets and gutters. Rain barrels should have a mesh screen on top. Visit www.oak-park.us/fightthebite or email health@oak-park.us for more information.