How Wildlife Can Cause House Fires

You understand the importance of fire prevention and take proactive steps to protect your home and family. You’ve created an emergency escape plan with a designated meeting place, make it a habit to ensure appliances like the stove are turned off before leaving, and routinely test your smoke alarm batteries throughout the year. 

Yet even with these careful precautions, your home may still face an unexpected threat: local wildlife. Outdoor pests can create serious fire hazards inside your home, making it essential to understand the risks they pose and how to prevent them. Keep reading to discover how wildlife can cause house fires.

Flammable Nesting Material

Wildlife often builds nests using small, highly flammable materials such as paper, leaves, twigs, lint, and fabric. When animals settle into the hidden spaces of a home, these nesting materials can accumulate quickly. If a nest is built near a heat source, the risk of ignition increases significantly, creating a serious fire hazard.

Chewed Gas Lines

Many rodents have a natural instinct to chew, and unfortunately, household wiring and gas lines are common targets. When electrical wires are damaged, they can spark and ignite nearby materials. If gas lines are compromised, leaks may occur, potentially leading to a fire or even a small explosion if gas accumulates in an enclosed area.

Blocked Vents

Rodents and other pests often carry debris and nesting materials into your home, where it can accumulate inside vents and other concealed spaces. When vents become blocked, appliances must operate at higher temperatures to function properly. This added strain not only reduces efficiency but also increases the risk of overheating and fire.

Critter Guard Can Help You Minimize the Risks

Of course, the best way to ensure that wildlife doesn't cause a fire in your home is to keep these little menaces outside. At Critter Guard, we offer a selection of repellent systems to keep wildlife out of your home and off your property. Contact us today to learn more about how our wildlife control products can help prevent house fires.