Did you know – Mice can cause electrical fires?

Our latest blog investigates the damage that rats and mice can cause, including causing electrical fires.

Did you know that mice, cute as they may seem, can cause quite a lot of damage by chewing through electrical wires? Rats and mice are known to be the source of many building fires and security alarm faults.

Why do mice like chewing wires?

Mice (and rodents in general) love to hide in nooks and crannies, as this helps to keep them safe from both the elements and possible predators. Unfortunately, this means that our premises often become desirable hidey-holes – especially roof cavities and attics, where building electrical wires may be found.

As previously mentioned in an older blog, mice and rats are extremely resilient, they don’t chew on wires for sustenance!,  Rodent teeth never stop growing and can grow at a rate of 0.3mm per day! This is why they gnaw on things  – in an attempt to file them down. In nature, they chew on things like grass, wood and even rocks!

Unfortunately for us, wires seem to be the perfect substitute as mice find them easier to hold onto while chewing.

Signs of a rodent infestation:

We advise that when proofing your premises for rats and mice you be on the lookout for tell-tale signs of an infestation. These include bite marks on wires, droppings and an organic smell in and around the area which may be susceptible to an infestation. After inspecting, we recommend you seal up holes that may be used as entrances into your building, and use metal electrical wires for good measure.

Professional rat and mice control

We also advise that you seek a professional pest control service provider with the know-how, techniques and tech innovations to properly prevent and get rid of rodent infestations.

With ongoing training for technicians and the latest technology, treatments and innovation, Rentokil is in the best position to be able to offer you the most efficient services to control rats and mice.

Need further advice? Book a rodent inspection of your site from one of our trained pest control experts.