Rats prompt complaints in Cranston

CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) - Rats are becoming a problem in another Rhode Island community.

Earlier this week, we reported that the rodents are becoming a growing problem in North Providence.

Now, people in Cranston are asking the city to help with an increased number of rats, spotted in a neighborhood off of Park Avenue.

Residents like Joe Rhodes say the rodents are even bigger this summer.  He found a dead one on his property.

"It was approximately 14 inches long from nose to tail, and that's considerable," Rhodes said. "We have seen them actually slightly bigger in the neighborhood as well. "

The city is now sending notices to residents, outlining several guidelines to help battle the rat problem.

The list includes reminders to cover garbage cans, keep pet food indoors and to refrain from feeding birds and squirrels.

Mayor Allan Fung's Chief of Staff, Carlos Lopez, says residents who notice rats in their neighborhood should call city hall, so they can dispatch a rodent control officer to their home.

"We have 2 rodent control experts out there, baiting, rebating, visiting problem areas," said Lopez. "We combine their efforts with our code enforcement inspectors who go out there and try to address the issues that attract the rats."

Cranston officials say they are stepping up efforts to enforce trash ordinances. which require residents to use covered garbage containers.