Today marks the inaugural Pet Fire Safety Day. The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) announced that it partnered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) and ADT Security Services in an effort to help reduce the number of pets affected in home fires every year. It is estimated that currently over 500,000 are pets affected in home fires each year. The main objective of this new coalition is to alert the public of the importance of pet fire safety and to remind people to include pets in their emergency plans.
At Petplan pet insurance we have seen our fair share of fire related claims, which is why we introduced the first ever customizable pet rescue alert poster. Since launching the poster 3 months ago thousands of pet parents across the country have uploaded their pet’s photos to create their custom alert posters. These posters are hanging on windows and doors to let fire crews know not only that there are pets inside the house but also what those pets look like and what they are called therefore aiding rescue efforts.
You can create and download your own pet rescue alert sign by going to http://www.gopetplan.com/pethealth/rescue-sticker.aspx. In addition here are a few more tips on how to keep your pets safe and avoid a fire emergency:
Extinguish Open Flames – We all know that curiosity killed the cat. Pets are by their very nature curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even an open fire. Make sure that your pet is never left unattended around an open flame.
Crate is kindest - Make sure to secure young pets when you are away from the home. Young puppies in particular have a knack for finding trouble. Try and keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home.
Keep Your Information Updated - Firefighters are familiar with pet alert window posters so keep the number of pets listed on them updated. With the custom Petplan pet alert sign you can add new family members at any time and feature up to three pets on each poster. Knowing the accurate number of pets in the house, what they look like and what they are called aides rescuers in finding all of your pets and provides important information so that firefighters do not put themselves or others in danger when rescuing pets.
Install Smoke Alarms– Change the batteries in your smoke alarm at least once a year and test it monthly to ensure it is functioning.
1.Making sure that you have your Vet's phone number with you.
2.Locate an animal hospital at your destination, so you know where to go (just in case).
3.Pack a pet first-aide kit. You can find these at your local petstore or online.
4. Bring a photo of your pet, just in case they wonder off.
