Fire Safety and Emergency Planning
- paactab
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
š„ Did You Know Wednesday? š„
š Fire Safety & Emergency Planning: Donāt Forget Your Pets š
Over 500,000 pets are affected by house fires each year in the U.S. alone. When it comes to emergency preparedness, many families have a planābut too often, pets are unintentionally overlooked. In the event of a house fire, every second counts, and having a plan that includes your pets can make all the difference.
Here are essential tips to keep your pets safe in case of a fire:
š¾ 1. Create a Pet-Inclusive Evacuation Plan
Designate who is responsible for each pet during an emergency. Practice regular fire drills that include gathering pets and exiting the home quickly and safely.
šŖ 2. Keep Leashes, Carriers, and Emergency Kits Near Exits
Store essentials like carriers, harnesses, and leashes close to doors. Include pet food, medications, and comfort items in your emergency kit.
š„ 3. Use Pet Alert Window Stickers
Place these on windows near main entrances to alert first responders to the presence and number of pets inside. Make sure the information is up to date.
š 4. Prevent Pet-Started Fires
Pets accidentally start over 1,000 fires each year. Avoid open flames and invest in flameless candles. Use stove knob covers and secure wires to prevent accidental ignition.
š 5. Confine Pets When Away
If youāre not home, consider keeping pets in areas near entrances. This increases their chances of being found and rescued quickly by emergency personnel.
š§Æ 6. Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms
Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly. Consider smart alarms that alert you remotely if youāre not home.
š¶š± In emergencies, our pets depend on us completely. Taking time to prepare could be the key to saving their lives.
Let this be your reminder: Fire safety planning is not complete without your pets.
Please share to help raise awareness in your community. š¾
T
PAACT President
587-333-1782
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