How to Keep Your Pets Safe from Fire

A fire safety plan prepares the whole family for an emergency. Include your furry friends in this plan with these tips on how to keep your pet safe from a fire!

National Pet Fire Safety Day is on July 15th, and it’s a day to learn how to keep your pet safe from fire. It’s best to prepare ourselves and our pets because emergencies can happen at any moment. By having a plan, you lessen the chance of overlooking important details in a scary situation. So, here are some ways you can keep your pet safe.

Have an Emergency Plan

Include every family member in this plan and make sure they know what to do and where to go. Pets are an important part of the family, so you should include them in an escape plan as well. Practice the escape route with your pets to ensure they exhibit a calm demeanor and trust during a stressful event.

Install Monitored Smoke Detectors

If you live in a fire-prone area, then you should definitely install these because if a fire starts, then the firefighters will be on their way even if you’re not home.

Place the Leash, Collar, & Harness by the Door

Keeping these by the door lets the first responders use them to help keep your best bud under control.

Pro Tip

Place a “pet alert” cling to a front window or door. You could also include a note stating how many pets you have and where they typically hide. In doing these things, you ensure first responders know exactly who they need to save.

Supervise Over the Flames

Don’t leave an open flame unattended, whether a candle, a fireplace, or stovetops, because they are the most common sources of home fires. Your pet can knock over a candle or a pan on the stove, and this can lead to trouble.

Watch Your Pet

Another part of knowing how to keep your pet safe from a fire is keeping a watchful eye over them. If a fire starts when you’re at home, keeping a close eye on your pet as you evacuate is crucial. They’re as scared as you are and may run off during the evacuation. And this is one reason to have your pet microchipped; if they run off, they’ll be brought back to you.

After the fire, you should also watch your pet for signs of smoke inhalation. If they exhibit lethargic behavior or seem to have a hard time breathing, bring them to a pet hospital. Whether your pet shows signs or not, you should also set up an appointment with your vet to ensure everything’s okay. Remember, the best fire safety plan keeps your furry friend safe before, during, and after the emergency!