We've all had to deal with pests in some form or another. From the swarms of flies hovering over a good meal to the bed bugs that make for uncomfortable sleep mates, pests are certainly pesky. Of course, none are quite so troublesome, feared and dreaded than the vermin that are rats.

Their population to be an estimated 60 million which happens to rival the (human) population size of the UK, you can't help but exclaim 'yikes!' in alarm. That's certainly a lot of rodents to deal with.

Thankfully, these three simple measures taken are proven to be as reliable and effective as your secondhand Audi or your trusted stereo from back in the groovy 80's in reducing these unwanted fiends.

1. Don't invite them round for a meal. Keep food locked away and not left lying around, in or outside your home and dispose of your rubbish so they can't get their grubby claws into them.

2. Block any holes, however small, in your walls, around pipes and using thin mesh for vents, etc. The rascals can fit through the tiniest of openings.

3. Encourage predators, such as cats, to your home. That'll surely give them cause for concern.

If, however, it's a serious infestation, then it's important to get in contact with pest control services as leaving it can make matters worse.