Like any other municipality, Marshalltown has a few rats in their sewer system.

Although there is not a major infestation, residents may experience an unwelcome visit by one of the furry critters. Rats live and breed in the sewer system because it provides an environment where they can thrive plus they are excellent swimmers. The main reason they will come into a house is that they seek food. Flushing food remnants from dish washing, garbage disposal use and other means provides a great trail for them to follow. Avoiding these practices will reduce the chance of someone seeing a rat.

Other ways to prevent rat intrusion:

• Have the sewer line televised by a plumber to detect any defects that may allow a rat to surface.

• Safe use of pungent items like citronella, peppermint and eucalyptus oils, naphthalene or even bleach have been know to ward them off.

• Rats do not like the scent of predatory animals like ferrets, dogs and cats.

• Make sure any sewer stubs or clean outs are properly capped which may keep them from coming in.

• Keep property cleaned up as to not provide hiding spots for them or any other nuisance animals.

If residents still have rats that decide to share occupancy with them, call the City Sewer Division at 641-754-5749. A few questions will be asked to attempt to verify sewer location and then place poison baits in the proper manholes to attempt to get rid of them.