Each year an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by home fires. Of these, almost 1,000 are actually started by the pet herself. We think about keeping our pets safe in the event of a fire, but how often do you actually think about what you can do to prevent your pet from starting the fire?
Extinguish Open Flames — Before you leave your home, make sure there aren’t any open flames for your curious four-legged friend to investigate. Check for candles, cooking appliances or a fire in a fireplace.
Remove Stove Knobs — If you have a stove with knobs that can be removed or protected before you leave the house, do so. A stove or cook top is the number one piece of equipment involved when pets start fires.
Invest in Flameless Candles — Remove the danger of your pet accidentally swiping a candle off a table with her tail and purchase candles that have light bulbs in them instead of wicks.
Don’t Leave Glass Water Bowls on Wooden Decks — This might not be an obvious one. When sunlight is filtered through glass and water, it can heat up enough to ignite wood on the decking underneath it. Use a ceramic or stainless steel bowl instead.
Pet Proof Your Home — Take a tour of your home looking for trouble spots where pets could accidentally start fires. Check for loose wires and other potential hazards.
It only takes a few minutes to help prevent pet-started fires, but the peace of mind you get will last a lifetime.