The National Pest Management Association shares important prevention tips during Rodent Awareness Week

PRNewswire - Signs such as a torn food package in the pantry, droppings beneath the sink or a gnawed box in the basement may indicate that rodents have taken up residence. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is observing Rodent Awareness Week, October 18-24, 2026, to assist homeowners in recognizing warning signs, understanding the hazards and knowing when to contact a professional.

Per an NPMA survey run online by The Harris Poll, just 40% of Americans implement steps to prevent rodents from entering their homes. Once inside, they can taint food and surfaces with bacteria such as salmonella and harm drywall, insulation and electrical wiring.

Mice can slip through openings as small as a dime, while rats can pass through holes the size of a quarter. NPMA points out three entry points homeowners ought to examine:

Garage: Look for spaces under the garage door and swap out damaged weather stripping.
Attic: Examine where siding and corner trim join, and close gaps or fix any harm.
Basement: Inspect around pipes, cables and HVAC lines, and fill openings with caulk or steel wool.

NPMA advises keeping food stored safely, covering trash bins, reducing outdoor food sources and clearing clutter. Monitor for rodent indicators, including droppings, gnawed wires or nesting items, and reach out to a qualified pest control expert.

Check NPMA's Rodents Revealed, What Grows There and Out of Sight. For prevention advice and locating a qualified pest control professional, visit the organization's website.

About the National Pest Management Association
The NPMA, a non-profit group with over 4,000 members, was founded in 1933 to back the pest management field's dedication to safeguarding public health, food and property from the illnesses and threats posed by pests. For additional details, visit the website or follow the group on Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok and YouTube and on Instagram.

Survey Methodology
This survey was performed online in the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of NPMA from August 27 to August 29, 2026, among 1,096 U.S. adults ages 18+. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is assessed using a Bayesian credible interval. For this research, the sample data is precise to within +/- 2.5 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. For full survey methodology, please contact the provided email.

SOURCE National Pest Management Association