Oct 25 Newsletter

Protecting Your Pets During Fire Prevention Week (Oct 5–11)

Fire Safety Tips for Your Furry (or Feathered!) Family Members
Fire Prevention Week is here (October 5–11), and while most of us know the basics of keeping our homes safe, many pet owners forget to include their animals in the family fire safety plan. Your pets are part of your family too, and they rely on you to keep them safe. Here’s what you need to know to help protect them in case of a fire.

1. Let First Responders Know You Have Pets
In the chaos of a house fire, it’s easy for firefighters to focus on rescuing people—but pets can be overlooked if no one knows they’re inside.

Here’s what you can do:

• Use a pet alert window cling: These are small stickers you place near your front door or window. You can write the number and type of pets in your home. Firefighters are trained to look for them.
• Keep pet crates or beds in consistent locations: That way, if firefighters do go in looking for animals, they know where to check first.
• Let neighbors or roommates know about your pets: In case you’re not home, someone nearby might be able to tell emergency responders about your animals.

2. Create a Fire Safety Plan That Includes Your Pets
Just like you plan escape routes for your family, you should also plan how to get your pets out quickly and safely.

Here are a few ideas:

• Assign a pet buddy: If you live with others, make sure each person knows which pet they are responsible for in an emergency.
• Practice evacuation with your pets: Especially for dogs, this can be a quick fire drill with a leash. For cats or smaller pets, know where carriers are and keep them easily accessible.
• Keep leashes, collars, and carriers near exits: In an emergency, you won’t have time to search. Consider a “go bag” for your pet with essentials like a leash, medication, or treats.
• Don’t delay to find a hiding pet: If you can’t reach them quickly, get out and let firefighters know where they might be.

3. Prevent Your Pets from Starting Fires

Yes—it happens more than you might think!

• Keep pets away from open flames: A wagging tail and a lit candle don’t mix. Use flameless candles or keep flames out of reach.
• Be cautious in the kitchen: Curious paws can accidentally knock over burners or hit stove knobs. Pet-proof your kitchen if your animal is particularly curious.
• Crate or confine pets when you’re not home: This can help prevent them from getting into risky situations when no one’s around.

4. Know the Signs of Fire-Related Injuries in Pets

If your pet has been exposed to smoke or fire, signs of damage may not always be obvious right away.

Watch for these symptoms:

• Coughing or trouble breathing: Smoke inhalation can affect pets just like people.
• Red or irritated eyes
• Burns on fur or paws
• Whining, shaking, or signs of distress
• Lethargy or collapseIf your pet shows any of these signs after a fire—even a small one—take them to a vet immediately. Fire and smoke injuries can worsen over time, and early treatment can save their life.

Final Thoughts

Fire Prevention Week is a great time to double-check your smoke alarms, practice your family’s escape plan, and make sure your pets are part of the plan too. A little preparation can make a big difference when every second counts.

So this week, take a few minutes to:

• Add a pet alert sticker to your window.
• Walk through your evacuation plan with your pets in mind.
• Make sure leashes and carriers are easy to reach.
  Your pets are counting on you—and with a bit of planning, you can keep every member of your household safe.