The original item was published from July 15, 2021 10:36 AM to July 15, 2021 10:57 AM
Did you know July 15 is Pet Fire Safety Day? Each year, 40,000 pets lose their lives in house fires. 1,000 fires are started by pets every year. Keep your furry friends safe with these helpful tips from Cedar Falls Public Safety!
Pet-Proof Your Home
Go through your home as if you are baby-proofing and eliminate any loose wires or potential hazards. Never leave candles unattended and always put them out of reach of children and pets (consider using flameless candles as a safe alternative). Remove or lock the knobs on your stove and do not allow smaller pets to jump up on top of the stove even if it is not in use. Knob covers are also an inexpensive way of preventing pets from nudging stove knobs.
Involve Pets in Your Family Fire Exit Plan
Create a family fire exit plan which includes any pets and practice it regularly with your family.
In the event of a fire, remember to never re-enter a building for any reason and wait for fire personnel to assist.
Pet Identification
Keep up-to-date license and contact information on your pet at all times and consider having them microchipped.
Make an Emergency Kit
Assemble a portable emergency kit with enough supplies to last seven days. The kit should be placed in a safe location near your front door for easy access and include:
- Medications and medical records for your pet
- Leashes, harnesses, or carries for safe transport
- Current photos in case they are lost
- Bowls, cat litter and pan, can opener
- Plastic bags and paper towels for waste clean-up
- Toys and pet beds
- Emergency contact numbers
- Food and bottled water
Get a Rescue Alert Sticker
These easy-to-use sticks, placed on a front-facing window, will alert rescue workers of the presence of pets in your home. To get a free emergency pet alert sticker for your home, fill out the ASPCA's online order form at https://secure.aspca.org/take-action/order-your-pet-safety-pack or visit your local pet supply store. Arrange a Safe Haven
Arrange a place for pets to stay if you are evacuated. Do not leave your pets at home: If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for them!