July 15th Is National Pet-fire-safety Day, Keep Your Little Loved Ones Safe!

Did you know that almost 360,000 house fires happen every year in the USA? This is alarming, and officials are now saying that drought conditions at the start of this fire season are forcing our state to be prepared now as we face one of the worst projected fire seasons on record. State officials are also urging our residents in fire-prone areas to prepare for possible evacuations. They recommend that residents review their “ready-set-go information” with loved ones now before a fire strikes. The good news is, thoughtful preparation can save lives, including those of our beloved pets!

National Pet Fire Safety Day is recognized annually on July 15. In honor of this special day, we encourage our fellow pet owners to learn how to keep their pets safe in the event of a fire emergency. More than 40,000 pets die every year in house fires, and we believe that awareness can save the lives of our beloved furry family members.

Pet Fire Prevention

Did you know that pets are one of the reasons fires start accidentally? The fact is, our pets are the cause of more than 1,000 house fires every year in this country. This may surprise you, but it’s actually pretty easy for them to accidentally accomplish this feat. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the number one cause of pet-activated fires is right in your kitchen…the stove or cooktop! And who among us hasn’t had to cover or hide electrical cords (and wires) so our pups and kittens don’t use them as chew toys? Help your pet and family stay safe from starting a fire by blowing out any candles when you leave the room or home. You can also keep your pet out of the kitchen using a pet gate, and don’t forget to cover access to the knobs on your stovetop.

Having a Plan In Case of Fire

You can also plan ahead with an escape plan for yourself, your family and your pets. Have a designated person responsible for rescuing your pet(s). Keep your pet’s collar, leash or carrier beside the door you plan to exit the house from, whether it’s the front door, back door or garage door. Don’t forget your own go-bags to keep ready in case you face an emergency evacuation. It’s a good idea to practice fire drills so that family members know what to expect, helping them to stay focused and calm in the event of a fire, and to make sure no pets are left behind in the adrenaline-fueled chaos of an evacuation.

Alert First Responders and Firefighters

It’s also a good idea to put a pet alert sticker on each side of your home or one on each window in an apartment for firefighters and first responders to see. Check your local volunteer firehouse on July 15 to see if you can get a free Pet Fire Safety Window Cling.

You can also leave a list detailing your pet’s favorite hiding places. This will help your rescue team to know where they should look if you are unable to get your pet out of the house when you leave. And in case your pets do escape by themselves, be sure to keep their tags up-to-date on their collars.

Peace of Mind

Drs. Peter Kim, William Altig, Eric Gregg and the rest of our Sierra Oaks dental team in Sacramento, CA, urge you to be prepared this fire season. We hope these tips can help you and your family have that peace of mind that comes from keeping your loved ones safe! Call us today at (916) 481-2000 if you have questions or concerns about your oral health.