September 14, 2009 :: Community

Alderman Reminds Everyone to Help Control Rodents

To effectively combat the rodent population it is very important to maintain the recycling and garbage carts and the area around them.  If any carts have holes or broken lids, call your alderman to have them replaced.  When placing items in a black garbage cart, be sure that all items are bagged.  Items in the blue bin should not be bagged – unless they are in paper bags.  Plastic bags are not recyclable and should not be put into any blue carts.  Blue carts should not contain any food or perishable products. 

One of the most abundant food sources for rodents in our neighborhood is caused by humans not picking up after their dogs.  I cannot stress strongly enough the need to pick up after your pets; in your own backyard, alley, any park or parkway and on streets and sidewalks.  This is a major problem in efforts to rid our area of rodents.  Seeds and other items from bird feeders that are left on the ground are also rodent magnets.  A bag of manure that is waiting to be incorporated into your soil is further enticement to rodents.

All of this leads back to simple precautions.  Keep all garbage cart lids closed.  If one cart is filled, use the next one.  Do not leave garbage outside of a cart.  Pick up after your pet, every time your pet goes out.  Don’t wait.  If you see a rat, report it to my office or 3-1-1.  Call Alderman Daley's office (773) 327-9111 if you have any questions or would like help with a rodent problem in your area.

If we make a serious effort to keep our alleys, yards and parkways free of debris, contain our garbage and pick-up after our pets we will make a great deal of headway in dealing with this problem.