According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), 700 household fires are caused by pets annually. Four-legged friends contribute to home fires in numerous ways, such as by accidentally turning gas stove knobs, knocking over candles and heaters, and chewing on holiday lights. Below, review tips for preventing smoke and fire damage caused by pets.

How to Avoid Pet-Related Fire Damage

1. Purchase Flameless Candles

Blow out regular candles before leaving a room, or replace them with flameless versions your pet cannot knock over. Dogs and cats are curious by nature and can easily cause a candle to fall onto a table or piece of cloth. Flameless candles feature light bulbs instead of wicks to help your home stay fire-safe.

2. Remove Stove Knobs

Take the knobs off of your gas stove if you have a dog who can reach the appliance when it stands on its hind legs. The NFPA cites stove knobs as the top reason for pet-related house fires. 

You can also use a baby gate to keep them out of the kitchen and anywhere else that could be a potential fire hazard.

3. Use Crates

Place a puppy or kitten in a crate while you’re out if you are concerned about fire safety. Ensure they have enough food, water, toys, and bedding, or ask a friend, family member, or professional pet sitter to check on them regularly. If you don’t want to use a crate, use baby gates instead. 

4. Keep Electrical Cords Away From Pets

Unplug electrical cords whenever possible, and keep them hidden from pets by blocking them using furniture or other objects. However, be careful; cords under rugs, for example, create too much heat. Use baby gates to keep pets out of rooms with holiday lights when you are not home. While cats usually leave cords alone, dogs can use them as chew toys.

5. Don’t Use Glass Water Bowls

Avoid using glass water bowls on outdoor wooden surfaces such as decks. Water provides a filter for sunlight, which can cause the underlying wood to catch fire on a hot day. Stick to stainless steel and ceramic bowls, especially if you have a home with many windows and hardwood floors. 

If you do have fire damage, contact Arkansas Restoration Services. This water, smoke, wind, storm, and fire damage restoration company serves Pope, Yell, Conway, and Johnson Counties in Arkansas and has provided homeowners with the solutions they need for over 30 years. Call (479) 967-2018 today to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their services online. Get additional household safety tips on Facebook.