San Francisco Takes the Fifth Spot on Orkin’s “Rattiest” Cities List In a surprising turn of events, San Francisco has found itself ranked as the fifth “rattiest” city in the United States, according to pest control giant Orkin. While traditionally, dense metropolitan areas on the East Coast have held this dubious distinction, it appears that the City by the Bay is not immune to the presence of troublesome rodents. Orkin recently released its annual list of America’s “Rattiest” cities, and Chicago secured the number one spot for the ninth consecutive year. Los Angeles followed closely behind in second place, with San Diego ranking at 28th and Sacramento at 33rd. These rankings are not solely based on the number of rats in a city or any official count, as it is nearly impossible to determine accurately. Instead, Orkin considers the frequency of new rodent services, reflecting how often they are called to address rat infestations. The rapid multiplication of rodents poses a significant threat, causing extensive damage to homes and yards. Rats are remarkably adept at squeezing into spaces as small as a quarter, making it crucial to seal cracks and entry points from the outside. The captivating video footage shared with KTLA reveals the distressing reality of rodents crawling along streets, sidewalks, and under vendor stands in search of food. The issue extends beyond the Bay Area, with merchants along Los Angeles’ renowned Olvera Street expressing their concerns about a rat infestation jeopardizing their livelihoods. These pests not only cause property damage but also carry various diseases, including Hantavirus, Leptospirosis, and even Monkeypox, as highlighted by the CDC. Orkin estimates that mice, rats, and other rodents invade approximately 21 million homes in the U.S. each fall and winter, seeking food and shelter as temperatures cool. It is essential for homeowners to take preventive measures to keep rats at bay. This includes ensuring that food is sealed and stored properly, removing clutter (especially cardboard, which rats use for nesting materials), maintaining well-kept landscaping around the home, and conducting regular inspections for signs of rodent activity. While San Francisco’s inclusion on the “Rattiest” cities list may come as a surprise, it serves as a reminder that rodent infestations can occur anywhere. It is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their homes and communities from these pests. By working together and implementing necessary preventive measures, we can strive towards creating cleaner, safer, and rodent-free environments for all. Meta Description: San Francisco ranks fifth on the list of America’s “Rattiest” cities, according to Orkin. The presence of rodents underscores the need for proactive measures to protect homes and communities. Featured Image: A visual representation of a rat infestation and the importance of preventive measures. Title: San Francisco Takes the Fifth Spot on Orkin’s “Rattiest” Cities List Tag: Personal Injury Law