Pet safety in the event of a fire
Many fires are caused by pets, especially when they are left alone on a property. If one is aware of the potential dangers, then at least one can prevent accidents.
Home owners have been urge to prevent unintentional fires caused by their pets.
ADT general manager Mr Theunis Kotze said most people are savvy in the event of preventing or managing a fire.
The National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly 1 000 house fires each year are accidentally started by homeowners’ pets.
“Pets can be the victims of a fire, but they can also be an unintentional cause,” said Mr Kotze.
He said that 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. Also, be sure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house,” said Mr Kotze.
Mr Kotze said it is also useful, in the event of a fire, to discuss who in a home is responsible for helping a pet escape and carry out some practice escape drills.
He said that many fires are caused by pets, especially when they are left alone on a property. If one is aware of the potential dangers, then at least one can prevent accidents.
Take note of these tips in case of fires:
- Develop a plan for your pet by determining which family member will be responsible for each pet. 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.
- Practice your escape plan so that it can help everyone feel more comfortable about what they need to do. This will help identify issues that are not clear or have not been well planned yet.
- Keep collars on pets and leashes 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 into your home evacuation plans and to minimise the fire hazards in your home,” said Mr Kotze.
