Having a pet comes with many responsibilities, and the most important component is keeping them safe in your home. A common worry for many pet owners is their furry friends causing a fire in their absence. However, there are easy ways to prevent pet-related fires. Being mindful and making a few changes at home ensures there are few ways pets can accidentally cause a fire. Below are a few helpful ways you can get started to create a safer home, protect your pet, and avoid the need for fire damage restoration.

How to Keep Pets From Causing Fires

1. Remove Stove Knobs

Roughly 1,000 fires are caused by pets each year, and the stove is a common area. Your pet may jump up to sniff at crumbs or food left on the stovetop. In the process, they can turn the stove knobs and ignite the burners. Whether they are gas or electric, stovetops will ignite nearby combustible items that can quickly cause a fire.

Your best option is to remove stove knobs and to keep your stovetop clean. You can also apply stove knob covers that have to be gripped and squeezed to turn. They’re also a great investment if you have children and want to prevent them from causing fires.

2. Don’t Leave Open Flames Unmonitored

Whether it’s a roaring fireplace or a single lit candle, never leave the flames unattended. A playful cat may topple the candle, or a dog may place a combustible toy too close to the fireplace. A small spark is all that’s needed to start a fire, so it is important to be attentive. Flameless candles are a safe replacement that looks just like a real candle. You can prevent fireplace accidents by putting pets behind a door divider or in a kennel while you enjoy the fire. Thoroughly extinguish all fires before leaving your home if you don’t kennel your pets while you’re gone. Hot fireplace ashes or hot surfaces, like a gas stove cooling down, can still ignite items and lead to the need for fire damage restoration.

3. Replace Glass Bowls

Glass bowls can filter and refract the sun’s rays outside and expose wood and foliage to temperatures hot enough to ignite them. Replace your pet’s outdoor dish with ceramic or stainless steel products. These drastically reduce fire risks and are also more durable, so you’ll enjoy longer and more reliable use. 

If you’re the unfortunate victim of a fire or other disaster, United Water Restoration Group – Atlanta North can help you recover. They bring over 20 years of industry experience to Georgia clients, including fire damage restoration, water damage repair, and mold removal. They’re available 24/7 and work with residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Visit their website to learn more about fire damage restoration or call (404) 935-5670 to discuss your needs. You can receive news and updates by connecting on Facebook.