Don't Let Fido Start a Fire

The Department’s Search and Rescue Canine Teams (pictured) urged residents to take steps to prevent their pets from starting fires and keep their pets safe during emergencies on National Pet Fire Safety Day, held on July 15.  The National Fire Protection Association released new data that shows nearly 1,000 house fires are caused by pets each year.  In addition, 500,000 pets are affected annually by home fires.  Fire season is now year-round, and more Los Angeles County residents are living in the “urban interface areas,” which are prone to devastating wildfires.  A fire accidently caused by a beloved pet could severely impact a community.  Through simple steps such as extinguishing open flames, investing in flameless candles, using stainless steel or ceramic bowls on wooden decks and pet proofing a home, pet owners can prevent their furry friends from starting a fire.

In addition, according to the American Red Cross, the best way to protect pets from the effects of a fire is to include them in your family emergency plan.  Pet owners should keep pets near entrances when away from home, practice escape routes with pets, and consider using monitored smoke detection services.  Affixing a pet alert window cling to a window near a home’s entrance will also indicate to rescuers how many animals are in your home. Free window clings are available online at http://www.adt.com/pets.

Local and state health and safety regulations do not permit the Red Cross to allow pets in disaster shelters. It may be difficult, if not impossible, to find shelter for your pets in the midst of an evacuation, so determine ahead of time where your pets can be sheltered in a disaster.  Assembling a portable pet disaster supply kit will also ensure your pets have everything they need in an emergency. For more information on pet safety and first aid, visit the Red Cross’ website at http://www.redcross.org/ .