Setting Rodent Traps

Before setting traps, you must first establish which type of rodent we are trying to control. Mouse traps should never be set in areas with rats because you run the risk of creating trap aversion.

Setting Rat Traps:

1. Establish the number of traps to set. This depends on the level of infestation, but you should always set at least 4 rat traps.
2. If there is rat activity in the sub area and the attic, and they are readily accessible, then set traps in both areas.
3. Load the traps, bait, and wire into your toolbox and proceed to the areas of concern. Make sure to wear boot covers if you are going inside a residence.
4. All traps need to wired together, going through the metal loop on the back end. Leave the wire extra-long so you can spread the traps out. Attach one end of the wire to something solid in that area so that the traps are anchored.
5. Bait all the traps. It is best to have some traps along the wall or in the path of travel.
6. Making sure to keep your fingers out of the striking area, carefully set each trap.
7. If you are setting rat traps in the living area or readily accessible area of a building, you should use covered tunnel traps so that they do not pose a risk to non-target pets or people.
8. Make a trap map with accurate trap locations. See GE.145 Creating a rodent trap map.

Setting Mouse Traps

1. Establish the number of traps to set. This depends on the level of infestation, but you should always set at least 8 mouse traps. Some buildings will nee many more traps depending on the size of space and severity of infestation.
2. For buildings larger than 3000 ft², you should set traps in multiple locations.
3. Look for areas of mouse activity, paying special attention to the location of droppings and chewing. Traps should be set in these areas. Behind furniture/appliances, inside cupboards, along walls and pathways are all good places to set traps.
4. If there is mouse activity in the sub area and the attic, and they are readily accessible, then set traps in both areas.
5. Load the traps and bait into your toolbox and proceed to the areas of concern. Make sure to have extra traps and to also wear boot covers if you are going inside a residence.
6. Bait and set the mouse traps, keeping them far enough apart so that they do not set each other off if tripped. Mouse traps do not need to be anchored.
7. If you are setting mouse traps in the living area or readily accessible area of a building, you should use covered tunnel traps so that they do not pose a risk to non-target pets or people.
8. Make a trap map with accurate trap locations. See GE.145 Creating a rodent trap map.