The short answer is yes. There are several documented cases from around the world of rodent infestations causing fires. In this article, we will discuss how that happens, other problems that rodents can cause and what you can do about it.
The Long Answer Is Also Yes
Rats have sharp incisor teeth that continue to grow throughout their lives. They need to be worn down on hard objects, which is why rats are always chewing on something. The bad news, if they live in your walls, under your floors or in your ceiling, is that they could be chewing through your electrical cables or signal box. There is no evidence to suggest they do this with malicious intent but the result can be quite disastrous.
Live and exposed wires pose a very serious fire risk. It only takes a tiny amount of water or a surge of electricity to create a spark. Walls are often filled with flammable insulation or, at the very least, timber. The threat of this kind of fire is particularly worrying given the fact that the act of wire chewing could predate the actual fire by years.
Other Problems Associated with Rats and Mice.
Rodents live in unsanitary environments. They are largely incontinent and spread faeces and urine throughout their roam. Rats and mice are also carriers of human pathogens, and a serious infestation is usually accompanied by a sick household or neighbourhood. Rats can chew through walls to get into food stores. The sound of their teeth and claws in the walls can certainly keep you up and uncomfortable at night.
Fences typically don’t bother rodents either. An infestation in your neighbour’s house, or the primary school down the road, can quickly become your problem when their existing food source dries up. They can also cause problems during winter when they seek the warmth and shelter of our roof and crawl spaces.
How to Get Rid of Rats and Mice
The first thing you should do if you notice signs of rats or mice in your property is clean up. Food should be packed into airtight containers, bins sealed and kitchen scraps promptly disposed of. These are good prevention measures, too. The floors should also be thoroughly cleaned as mice are guided by the smell of their own excrement. If necessary, any holes or cracks should be filled – you wouldn’t believe the tight spaces a mouse can climb into.
Baits and traps can be employed to catch or kill the offending pest and care should be taken to repeat these steps as often as necessary to protect your property.
If the situation starts to get out of hand, call a professional as soon as possible. Professional pest controllers are well trained in the different idiosyncrasies of various rodents and have the equipment and know how to deal with them promptly and discreetly.
Call AGJ Pest Management for Professional Exterminator Service
We are always available for an obligation-free quote, get in touch with us online or call us on 07 3171 8277.
