Wildfire sparked by rats; put out quickly by fire crews
LITTLETON, Colo. (KRDO) -- West Metro and South Metro Fire Rescue (WMFR) crews responded to a wildfire last night in Waterton Canyon.
WMFR says that the fire burned about half an acre near the Strontia Springs Dam on a steep and rugged slope. Crews were able to quickly slow the fire's progress, thanks in part- to high humidity overnight.
According to WMFR, the fire was caused by rodents chewing on wires in an electric box which shorted out the system, causing arcing and sparking, igniting the dry grass.
Believe it or not, it is not all that uncommon for animals to be involved in starting a fire.
According to the National Fire Protections Association, pets or wild animals take part in starting around 750 accidental home fires per year. The accidents can involve cooking equipment, fireplaces and chimneys, space heaters, lamps, bulbs, wiring, and candles.
American Humane has a list of pet fire safety tips here. The list includes preparing for a fire, what to do during a fire, and how to prevent a fire.
