—Prevent trash piles from accumulating

—Keep the storage area clean

—Control rats inside and outside. (Seek the advice of your county Extension office or a sanitarian)

—Destroy any infested food

—Remove all containers at least once a year. Wash them and air dry in the sun

—Remember that good housekeeping practices apply to all places where food is stored

For Further Reading:

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Storing Vegetables and Fruits in Basements, Cellars, Outbuildings, and Pits, H&G Bul. No. 119, on sale by Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. 40¢.

Resurgence of Community Canneries

by F. Aline Coffey and Roger Sternberg[19]