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A rat guard is a device used to prevent rats from boarding ships or entering buildings via ropes, cables, or wires. These guards are typically conical or disc-shaped and are designed to stop rats from climbing by creating a physical barrier they cannot pass. Rat guards are essential in maritime environments and areas where rats pose a threat to goods, vessels, and infrastructure. In summary, rat guards serve as a crucial tool in protecting vessels, storage facilities, and offshore installations from rats, preventing potential damage and health risks caused by these pests.[1]
Rat guards work by creating an obstacle that prevents rats from climbing along lines such as mooring ropes or cables. The guards are generally made from metal or durable plastic and feature a smooth, sloped surface that rats cannot grip or climb. When installed correctly, the shape of the guard causes rats attempting to climb to slip off, preventing them from reaching the other side.
The rat guards are positioned on ropes or cables a few feet away from the dock or vessel to stop rats from bypassing the guard by jumping across. These devices are particularly effective because they exploit the rats' inability to navigate the smooth, conical surface of the guard.
Rat guards are primarily used in maritime and industrial settings where rats pose a risk of infestation or damage. Common places where rat guards are used include:
- Ships and Ports: Rat guards are installed on mooring lines to prevent rats from climbing aboard vessels when docked. This helps protect cargo, reduce the risk of disease, and prevent damage to the ship's infrastructure.
- Docks and Harbors: Ports often have large rat populations due to abundant food and shelter. Rat guards are placed on mooring lines to block rats from accessing docked vessels.
- Marinas: Pleasure boats and yachts moored at marinas also use rat guards to avoid rodent infestations.
- Warehouses and Storage Facilities: Warehouses near ports or in areas with high rat activity may use rat guards on cables or wires to prevent rats from entering the facility.
- Fishing Boats: Fishing vessels use rat guards to protect food supplies and maintain the cleanliness of the catch.
- Oil Platforms and Offshore Installations: Offshore platforms and oil rigs use rat guards on mooring lines to prevent rats from boarding via supply vessels.
- Military Vessels: Naval ships use rat guards to protect against rodent infestation while docked.
Rat guards are commonly made from steel, aluminum, or strong plastic materials to ensure durability and to prevent rats from chewing through them. The guards are installed a short distance away from where the cable connects to the ship, dock, or building to ensure rats cannot bypass the guard.
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