Posted on July 15, 2015 at 2:49 PM by Charlene Webster
From Freeholder Deputy Director Bruce Garganio
July 15th is National Pet Fire Safety Day
Here are some tips to keep pets safe from house fires from the American Kennel Club and the ASPCA:
Extinguish Open Flames
Pets are generally curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.
Pet Proof the Home
Take a walk around your home and look 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, leashes and carry cases 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
Use monitored smoke detectors, which are 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 and attach the static cling to a easily visible window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets. You can get more information and a free window cling online at the ASPCA
Keep Your Information Updated
Firefighters are familiar with pet alert window clings so keep the number of pets listed on them updated. Knowing the accurate number of pets in the house aids rescuers in finding all of your pets.