Pet Fire Safety
Keeping your home safe from fire is something that all homeowners and tenants should do, but keeping inquisitive pets away from potential fire hazards is an extra task that can be more tricky, especially as you can’t inform your pets of the dangers of fire through a simple chat! This article will look at some of the most effective ways to keep your pets safe from fire and how to prevent them from inadvertently putting themselves, and you, in danger.
Statistics show that on average, 500,000 pets are affected by fire each year, with 40,000 of those pets dying as a result. Pets themselves are responsible for an average of 1,000 fires a year, so it definitely pays to be proactive as well as reactive.
Don’t forget open flames
If you like to have candles lit around your home or you like to use a roaring fire to keep warm, remember to extinguish any flame before you leave the house or go to bed. Pets can easily knock over candles and the flames can quickly spread throughout the home.
Babyproofing = pet proofing
Just as you can use certain methods to prevent young children getting into places that they shouldn’t, you can do the same for pets. Baby gates are an effective tool as the animals will soon learn that they shouldn’t cross the barriers. This is especially helpful for young animals like kittens or puppies, as it stops them chewing electrical wires.
Stoves
Somewhat surprisingly, the National Fire Protection Association revealed that the number one cause of pets starting house fires was actually stove knobs, so ensure that they are either removed or locked if you are leaving the house or going to sleep.
Microchips
Ensure that your pets are microchipped so they can be identified and reunited with you should you get separated in the event of a fire.
After a fire
If you are unfortunate enough to suffer a fire at your home, your pets will likely be scared and you won’t be able to keep them in your house if there has been severe damage. Instead, ask a friend or relative who is comfortable with animals if they would mind looking after your pets, or locate pet-friendly establishments that will allow you and/or your pets to stay there temporarily.
By following the above advice as well as taking care not to ignore any fire hazards yourself, you can reduce the risk of fire in your home and ensure that you, your family and your pets are as safe as possible.
City Fire are experts in providing fire safety equipment for clients up and down the country. If you would like to know more about what we do, please get in touch with us today and we’ll be more than happy to help.
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