In 2009, the American Kennel Club and ADT Security launched National Pet Fire Safety Day to educate pet owners about the potential risks of leaving pet home alone and how to ensure their safety. National Pet Fire Safety Day is now observed every July 15th.
The AKC and ADT created these Tips to Keep Pets Safe from House Fires:
- Extinguish Open Flames – Do not leave your pet unattended around an open flame (stove, candles, fire place) and thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.
- Pet Proof the Home – Inspect your home for areas where pets might start fires inadvertently, such as the stove knobs, loose wires and other potential hazards.
- Secure Young Pets – Especially with young puppies and kittens, keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home.
- Keep Pets Near Entrances – When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.
- Practicing Escape Routes with Pets – Keep collars and leashes at the ready in case you have to evacuate quickly with your pet or firefighters need to rescue your pet.
- Since Pets Left Alone Can’t Escape a Burning Home – Consider using a fire protection system which is connected to a monitoring center, providing an added layer of protection beyond battery-operated smoke alarms.
- Affix a Pet Alert Window Cling – Write down the number of pets inside your house(keep info updated) and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets. Window clings are available on Amazon.com athttp://www.amazon.com/Pet-Safety-Alert-Window-Decal/dp/B00079YTTC or call your local fire department.