House fires affect all family members including our furry family members. Here are some tips on how to prevent your pets from causing house fires and protecting them in case of one:
- Prevent your pets from causing house fires. Do not leave open flames in areas that are easy for your pets to knock over, and do not leave open flames unattended around pets, especially cats as they are more likely to play with/knock over a candle or other form of open flame. Do not leave electrical cords around, and unplug them when not in use. Pets often chew on electrical cords, and this can cause electrical fires. Finally always create a secure barrier between your pets and a fireplace/campfire/barbeques etc. It is easy for them to get too close and their fur can catch on fire quite easily. Cats are very drawn to the heat of a fire, be extra attentive when pets are around.
- Create a safety plan that your whole family is involved in. Ensure that you include what to do with pets. If you have cats have a larger crate in a place that is easily accessible in regards to your exit plan if you have small dogs this can also be used in the same manner. If you have larger dogs, place leashes near the exits. This will allow you to contain your pet and safely remove them from the home. If a fire breaks out and you are unable to remove your pet safely, let a firefighter know as soon as you can, they will attempt to locate and remove the pet in a safe manner. On your safety plan, you will want to include a list of your pet’s favourite hiding places in case you/firefighter need to search for the pet.
- Create a pet first aid kit -this link is from Red Cross and has a fantastic and comprehensive list of what needs to be in a safety kit. You should have at least one kit in your car as you may not be able to reach the one in your home during a fire. Include an updated version of your pet’s medical history or at least any ailments they may have (i.e. epilepsy, diabetes etc.) This is to ensure that any issues are treated in your absence (if you need to be in the hospital or the pet cannot be found right away etc.).
- Lastly, contact your regular veterinarian once you are able to and have them examined. You want to ensure that there was very little smoke inhalation and that they are doing okay. They will be stressed and anxious, which is normal after something like this, but it is important to have them examined.
Written by Blair Lutes-Comeau
