WA Fire Marshal Warns: Keep Pets Safe This Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, officials from the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office are reminding pet owners to stay vigilant about fire safety. Surprisingly, pets can be a significant fire hazard, causing an estimated 750 accidental home fires each year in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
PETS CAN BUMP INTO THINGS IN THE KITCHEN LAMPS OR SPACE HEATERS
These fires often happen when pets interact with everyday household items such as kitchen appliances, fireplaces, space heaters, lamps, electrical wiring, and candles.
In Washington state alone, 2023 saw a troubling total of 1,763 fires caused by open flames, primarily from candles. While not all of these incidents were directly related to animal activities, the Fire Marshal's Office emphasizes the need for caution in homes with furry companions.
SOME SAFETY TIPS TO FOLLOW FOR PET OWNERS;
Keep Pets Away from Cooking Equipment: Curious pets may accidentally bump into or turn on stoves, ovens, or other kitchen appliances. It's important to keep them safely away from cooking areas, countertops, and stove tops.
Protect Pets from Candles and Lamps: Never leave pets unattended near candles, lamps, or space heaters. A playful nudge can easily topple a candle or lamp, igniting a fire.
Use Fireplace Safety Screens: Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on fireplaces and ensure it is securely in place. Establish a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet around the fireplace to prevent burns or accidents.
WATCH PETS AROUND YOUR FIREPLACE OR STOVE
Guard Your Fireplace Vents: Keep pets away from outside vents of your chimney, as these can become extremely hot. Remember that glass doors and screens on fireplaces can remain dangerously hot for hours after the fire is extinguished, posing a burn risk.
Use Flameless Candles: Consider using battery-operated, flameless candles, which provide the same ambiance as traditional candles without the fire risk. These are a safer alternative for homes with pets.
WATCH THOSE CORDS
Secure Electrical Cords: Puppies and kittens often love to chew, so it’s crucial to keep electrical cords out of their reach and ensure they are in good condition. This can help prevent pets from accidentally chewing through wiring, which poses a fire hazard.
As holiday festivities commence, pet owners are encouraged to follow these safety guidelines to protect their homes and beloved animals. By staying mindful of fire risks, families can enjoy a safe and joyous holiday season while keeping their furry friends out of harm's way.
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