PDSA warning of hidden household fire risks

This Pet Fire Safety Day (Wednesday 15 July) leading vet charity PDSA is reminding owners that a few simple precautions could help save their pet’s life in the event of a house fire.

While many people think about smoke alarms and escape plans for themselves, it’s easy to overlook the extra steps needed to keep pets safe. Curious cats and adventurous dogs can also accidentally create fire hazards by knocking over candles, jumping onto kitchen worktops or chewing electrical cables.

PDSA Vet Anna Ewers-Clark explains: “Our pets are naturally curious and don’t always recognise danger. Something as simple as a wagging tail knocking over a lit candle or a pet investigating a hot hob can cause injury to your pet but can also quickly become a serious fire risk. Pet Fire Safety Day is a timely reminder to do a few simple checks around the home to protect both your family and your pets.

“The best protection is prevention. Never leave naked flames unattended or in reach of a pet, keep hobs clear and use control covers where possible, protect electrical cables from inquisitive chewers, and always use a fire guard in front of open fires. Remember that lots of pets can jump or climb onto counters or up onto shelves, so check these as well. These small actions can make a big difference.”

PDSA is also encouraging owners to include pets in their household fire escape plans. In an emergency, every second counts, so knowing where pets usually sleep or hide can help save valuable time.

Anna added: “Think about how you would safely get every member of your household out of the property – including your pets. Keep leads and carriers somewhere easy to access, make sure your pet’s microchip details are up to date, and consider preparing an emergency grab bag containing food, medication and other essentials in case you have to leave home quickly. You can also put a sign near any entrances or exits to the house which let people know if there are pets in the household. These allow emergency services to check for pets if an issue ever occurs when you’re not home.

“Most importantly, if a fire breaks out, get everyone out immediately and call the fire and rescue service. If possible, try to find somewhere safe and secure for your pet that’s far away from smoke. Never go back into a burning building to try to rescue a pet yourself. Tell firefighters if you believe an animal is still inside so they can respond safely.”

PDSA’s top pet fire safety tips

Never leave candles or other naked flames unattended or in areas that can be accessed by pets.

Keep hobs and ovens switched off when not in use and avoid leaving food or flammable items on the hob.

Protect electrical wires and cables from chewing by keeping them out of reach or covered.

Always use a fire guard with open fires or wood-burning stoves.

Test smoke alarms regularly and ensure they are working.

Plan how you’ll evacuate with your pets and keep leads and carriers in an accessible place.

Make sure your pet’s microchip details are up to date and they wear identification where appropriate.

Prepare an emergency pet kit with food, medication, water, bedding and important documents.

Put a sign near the entrance or exit which says the number of pets in the household so emergency services know how many pets might be inside.

Anna adds: “Pet Fire Safety Day is the perfect time for families to review their home’s fire safety and ensure every member of the family, including those with four legs, is protected.”