July 2017 – Pet Fire Safety Day!
According to the United States Fire Administration, there is an estimated 500,000 pets affected by fires on an annual basis, while approximately 40,000 pets actually die in house fires annually. The American Red Cross reports home fires are the most common disaster requiring their response. It follows that Pet Fire Safety Day is July 15, helping to create awareness of house fire dangers.
Make sure your emergency disaster plan for your family includes your pets! This means making sure pets should have their own disaster supply kits on hand as well as arranging in advance for a safe place for them to stay if you need to vacate your home. You should even practice evacuation procedures with your pets so in the event of an emergency, everyone knows what to do and how to manage the pets.
Did you know the National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly 1,000 home fires each year are accidentally started by the homeowners’ pet? Stay safe and keep pets confined and away from potential fire-starting hazards in the home. Remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house if the pets are able to get near. Also, don’t allow pets near open flames (candles, burning fireplace). A better choice is using flameless candles, for example, that are pet safe.
It’s also a good idea to affix a pet alert window cling to your front window so that emergency responders know pets might be in the home. Be sure to write down the number of pets inside your house – this critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets.
Recommended Reading:
Have a Disaster Preparedness Plan that includes your Pets!
Belle Mead Animal Hospital, Your Other Family Doctors
Handling Every Pet with Love Every Day!
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