Taking care of your family pet requires a number of responsibilities, from seeing their veterinarian regularly to providing them with a safe home. July 15 is National Pet Fire Safety Day, making it the perfect occasion to review the best practices to keep your animal and home safe from fires.

4 Tips for Pet Fire Safety

1. Don’t Leave an Open Flame Unattended

Animals are curious creatures, which may lead to mishaps if they come across household items like candles or stoves. Whether you’re stepping outside for some fresh air or running errands, put out any open flame before exiting your home. If you have difficulty remembering this, avoid items that use open flames.

2. Keep Electric Cords Out of Reach 

Pets often chew on electrical cords, which may result in injury and fire hazards. Prevent access to any cords and wires by placing them behind large pieces of furniture. If this isn’t plausible, you can also get cord clips to attach them to walls or baseboards, or run them through interior walls.

3. Keep Leashes Near Doors

If a fire does occur in your home, having leashes and collars near the doors will make it easy to gather your pet and leave. If you don’t already have an exit strategy, develop a plan to follow if a fire starts. It should include which exits you’ll take, depending on where the fire has started, as well as where you’ll go once you’re outside.

4. Place Fire Alert Window Decals

Fire alert window decals inform police and firefighters who is inside your home, including pets, so they know when everyone has been retrieved. Ask your veterinarian if they have any pet-specific decals you can place to provide additional information for rescue teams.

Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or new to the area, find the care you need for your companion animal at Kokua Pet Clinic in Honolulu, HI. Their veterinarian has more than 40 years of experience providing comprehensive services, from preventative screenings and vaccinations to spaying and neutering procedures. To learn more about the veterinary clinic’s capabilities, visit them online or call (808) 843-8382.