Pets and Fire Safety

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Your Pets and Fire Safety Tips

Household pets are responsible for over 1,000 house fires each year in the United States.  We sometimes unknowingly set the stage for such unfortunate events to happen.  It has been reported that at minimum 40,000 pets die each year in house fires.  If a pet has access to any of the wiring or cables around the house, they can potentially start an electrical fire. One of the easiest ways to pet-proof a house from electrical hazards is to start by gathering all loose, exposed wires together with a twist tie so that they are not as tempting to play with. Additionally, keep location of electrical cords, outlets and heaters in mind when picking where to place your pet’s food and water bowls, beds, and crates.  If your pets are already in their crates when emergency crews arrive, they can be more quickly and easily removed to safety.

Most fires are caused by pets knocking over candles or leaning against stove knobs. To avoid use child and pet-safe gates to keep them away from flames.  Using heaters that turn off automatically when knocked over can prevent fires as well. Since flameless candles do not involve actual flames, there is no danger of your pet starting a house fire by knocking one over.

Educating yourself on pets and fire safety can save your life, pets, and your home.  Taking simple steps to remove items within your dogs reach that can cause a fire hazard is the first step.  Before bringing your new addition, home make sure all electrical wiring has been secured.  Make sure you select a safe place to put your pets’ crate or bedding.  Do not place near any open flames as fireplaces or heaters.  When using candles place them out of your pet’s reach.  Remember your pets are curious and will seek out anything to chew and play with.

Your local SERVPRO is always here to help in any fire or smoke damage you may have experienced.  We are dedicated to responding to your fire emergency immediately.