Is there a safe way to humans of releasing the captured rat?
Safe release for humans – key guidelines:
- Wear protection: Always wear thick gloves (gardening or work gloves) when handling the trap, and avoid putting fingers near any openings. This reduces risk if the rat panics and also protects from contamination.
- Keep the trap away from your body: Use the carry handle only, hold it at arm’s length and keep it low to the ground when moving it.
- Release well away from buildings: Choose a release point at least several hundred metres from your home or any other property – ideally a rough/wooded area where the animal can quickly find cover. Releasing too close means it can simply come back or move into someone else’s building.
- Stand behind the trap when opening: Place the trap on the ground, position yourself behind or to the side of the door, and open the release end using the designated latch or mechanism (each Big Cheese live trap has a way to open the door without putting your hand inside).
- Let the rat exit on its own: Step back and allow a clear escape path. Don’t shake or prod the trap; just give it a minute or two and the rat will usually bolt out.
- Wash up afterwards: Once the trap is empty and you’re back home, wash the trap according to the instructions (usually hot soapy water outdoors) and wash your hands thoroughly even if you wore gloves.
