National Pet Fire Safety Day

Today is National Pet Fire Safety Day!

Approximately 500,000 pets are affected by house fires each year. Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe:

• Pet proof your home- Take a walk around your home and check for any fire hazards. This could include stove knobs, fireplaces, loose wires, and keeping candles and warmers up high out of your pet’s reach. Check online for tools to help keep appliances like stove knobs safe from your pets.

• Extinguish open flames- Never leave your pet unattended with an open flame. Make sure to put any candles out, turn off stove tops and practice safe fireplace usage if that is your source of heat.

• Keep your pets near an exit- This will allow firefighters to be able to quickly remove your pets in the event of a fire.

• Practice escape routes- Keep leashes and collars close by so they can be quickly put on. Know your escape routes and plans so that in the event of a fire you and your pets can escape quickly and safely. Keeping slip leads in reach is a fast tether for you or first responders to use in an emergency. Always check the batteries in smoke detectors frequently.

• Use a Pet Alert window cling- This will indicate that pets are in the home and how many; some can even show what kind of pets are in the home. There are many available online to purchase, but we have some available to pick up here at the hospital.

• Update all your contact information- Check that all ID tags and microchips have your correct information on them. This will help first responders contact you quickly in the event of an emergency.

We want all of you and your pets to be happy, healthy, and safe; we ask that you take the time to create an escape plan and be prepared!