Despite following all
tips to prevent fires in your home, some accidents may be unavoidable. In this case, knowing what to do to minimize the damage and to avoid endangering your family and pets is crucial. Here are some ways you can protect your dogs in the event of a fire:
- Keep your dog’s collar on at all times and place leashes near the door so first responders can use them to lead pets to safety. Dogs are often waiting at doors and run out when firefighters come in.
- You may want to confine dogs in rooms or areas near an entry door when you are out of the house so firefighters can find them easily. Pets are more likely to be injured or to die in a fire when they are locked in a kennel or room away from an exit.
- If you live in a fire-prone area or are concerned about a fire potentially starting, consider installing monitored smoke detectors so firefighters will be notified of and can respond to a fire even if you’re not home.
- Note where your pets like to nap or hide in case you must evacuate your home quickly.
- Have an emergency plan and practice routes of escape with your dog. Include all members of the family in this plan and make sure they know what to do and where to go.
- Make an emergency kit that you can easily grab on the way out. Make sure it has a leash, medication, and any immediate needs your dog might have for the next few days.
- Keep the phone number and address of a local animal hospital handy. If your pet is injured, you’ll need to know where to take them for treatment quickly.
- Alert firefighters to the presence of pets with window stickers that display the number and types of pets inside, and make sure the stickers are up to date. The presence of one reminds firefighters to spend a little more time searching the house for pets. Free stickers are available at local volunteer firehouses nationwide on July 15 and from the ASPCA.
Dogs may also be in danger of fires outside the home. Campfires and cookouts are popular during the summer months, and dogs are often with their families having fun at these events. The best way to keep pets safe is to make sure they're comfortable and secure in their own home. Need an experienced pet sitter who's paw-some and loves dogs just like you do? Booking a sitter from Pet Peeps is only a few clicks away:
schedule a service.
