National Pet Fire Safety Day: 'Howliday' tips to keep Fido, Fluffy & family safe
When it comes to holidays, July 15 has a little something for everyone. Not only is it National Be a Dork Day, National Respect Canada Day and I Love Horses Day, it is also a potentially life-saving awareness day. July 15 is National Pet Fire Safety Day.
This annual "howliday," launched by the American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services, helps raise awareness about a dangerous and devastating hazard many folks may not realize. While parents spend time and money child-proofing their homes, many people are unaware that curiouspets can also be the cause of potentially deadly fires. In fact, it is estimated that our four-legged friends accidentally start nearly 1,000 fires annually. Approximately 500,000 pets are affected by home fires in America each year.
Cesar Milan, known as the Dog Whisperer, shares several life-saving tips to help keep all members of your family safe in honor of National Pet Fire Safety Day:
Pet Proof Your Home - It's time to take a walk around the house. Get down on your hands and knees and look for potential hazards like loose wires, stove knobs and items that may be attractive to Fido or Fluffy.
Blow It Out - While candles do add ambiance to a room, they can also be dangerous to children and pets. Instead of using traditional candles, why not buy flameless candles instead? Whether it's a burning candle, roaring fire in the fireplace or smokin' fire out on the barbee, be sure to extinguish any open flame before leaving your home or turning in for the night.
Glass Water Bowls - Did you know that glass water bowls on a wooden deck can actually ignite? The sun's rays heat up the water and glass and can actually ignite the wooden deck beneath the bowl. Use stainless steel, plastic or ceramic bowls instead.
Pet Alert Window Decal Cling - Attach a pet alert decal to a front window or door of your home with the number of pets inside your home. Emergency responders will know how many animals are in the home in case of a fire.
Secure Young Pets - Keep young pets away from potential fire-starting hazards.
Escape Routes - Always know where crates, collars and leashes are in case of an emergency.
Ensure all members of your family are safe by following the simple safety tips listed above.