Fire Safety With Pets

For those of you who have pets, you most likely have a strong relationship with them. Pets can give us unconditional love and comfort. However, did you know that your pet can also cause a fire?

According to NFPA, pets and wild animals have had a part in starting about 700 house fires per year. Pets are always curious and can easily bump into, turn over, or turn on cooking equipment. Keeping your pets away from stoves and countertops can help prevent an accidental fire in your home. If you have a fireplace in your home, it should have a metal or heat-tempered glass screen to keep the fire in place.

Pets should also be kept away from candles, lamps, and heaters. Not only can things in your home be knocked over or turned on to start a fire, but items such as electrical cords can be chewed through by your pet. If you know that your pet likes to chew, check your cords frequently and inspect for any that have been chewed.

These cords should be replaced immediately if signs of chewing are obvious. Although pets are like part of your family, in the event of a fire, you should never go back inside for a pet. Let the firefighters know that a pet is trapped inside when they arrive on scene. Making sure that your pets are also included in your family evacuation plan can help ensure their safety.