The moment word spreads that there are mice or rats in the office, the first thing to avoid is the slightest panic. You don’t want everyone acting like sitcom or cartoon characters being up in arms with all manner of pest control products.

Another thing you should avoid is reprimanding anybody immediately, whether it is the cleaning staff or employees you suspect of having the least tidy desks. Your first priority is to weigh your options for exterminating the infestation. It can actually be as simple as calling a professional or setting a particular trap, or as serious as calling the building management and quarantine.

Either way, avoid panic so you can make a sound decision.

That said, the next question is exactly what are the options you should be weighing when dealing with an established pest problem.

1. Snap traps

These include your iconic mouse traps as well as the more sophisticated variety made of plastic or metal. All of them, however, are mainly spring-loaded and designed to effectively kill rodents upon triggering. If you are looking for a method that completely confirms the extermination, then setting up a few of these in strategic areas will do the trick.

Of course, these traps undoubtedly brutal and their use is not recommended if you have employees who are squeamish or uncomfortable with brutal methods of pest control. They also require your cleaning staff to dispose of the dead rodent quickly so as to avoid the spread of deadly viruses.

2. Electric traps

These include both the electric traps for rodents as well as bug zappers. While they are both constructed differently, they are known to be even more effective than brute force traps (like snapping ones).

Their downside though is that they obviously rely on a lot of power and require dedicated cleanup by staff. Still, if you are looking for a pest control system that is consistent and effective, these traps can be worth the price.

3. Sticky traps

These types of traps are arguably the cheapest you can get and are a little more humane in their killing. The simple use of a special adhesive means that you can use these to deal with all kinds different kinds of pests at once.

Take note though, that these cannot be reused and at times even less hygienic than snap or electric traps. There is the chance that the captured pests might still be alive and struggling in the morning. If you plan on using them, then make sure your cleaning personnel checks and disposes of these traps before anyone else comes in.

4. Pesticides

There is no denying that pesticides are a double edged sword. On the one hand, their effective use can decimate entire populations of invasive rodents and insects. But on the other, you have to seriously consider their environmental implications when choosing what chemical to use.

Hence, it is more recommended to just call in an exterminator to deal with the really serious infestations. And if you would really rather use a bit spray to take care of a more minor pest problem, make sure to opt for organic sprays that don’t have a strong smell lingering about.

While television likes to make a joke about exterminating office pests, it is serious business in the real world. Firm protocols are warranted and it is best to stay calm at all times when handling the problem.