Are your pets safe in the event of a fire?
Many people don't realise that their beloved dog or cat can cause a fire in their home.
While most people are fire savvy in the event that a fire breaks out in their home, the fact is few people actually think of the fire hazard their beloved cat, dog or other animals could pose in the home.
Agnieszka Gryn, Fidelity ADT Regional Executive, warned that fires can be caused by pets.
“Many fires are caused by pets, especially when they are left alone in a property. Our intention is to highlight the dangers to owners, so that these fires can be prevented,” she said.
The National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly a 1 000 house fires each year are accidentally started by homeowners’ pets.
“Animals 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,” Agnieszka said.
Agnieszka said it is also useful to discuss who in the home is responsible for helping pets to escape in the event of a fire and to practise some escape drills.
Tips for keeping your pets safe in the event of a fire:
• Know where your pets hide, as this may be the first place they go if there is a fire.
• Ask someone in your family or a friend – in advance – if they would be willing to keep your pets for you in case of an emergency.
• Keep collars on pets and leashes at the ready in case firefighters need to rescue your pet.
• When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.
“It takes some simple planning to include your pets in your home evacuation plans and to minimize the fire hazards in your home. For pet lovers, some planning is an invaluable time investment!” Agnieszka said.
• Source: Fidelity ADT
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