Keep your pets safe from home fires with an ADT fire detection system

Pet lovers know that it can be stressful to leave beloved pets at home every day. While we are at work, school, and all of our other commitments, our pets are at home eagerly anticipating our return. And while it’s unpleasant to think about, pet owners should be aware that pets are vulnerable if the unthinkable happens while we are away.

Every year, an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by home fires. Many of those pets fall victim when an otherwise unoccupied house goes up in flames. For pet owners, this scenario is a nightmare. What makes it even worse is that in many cases, it can be prevented.

Recently the American Kennel Club, the National Volunteer Fire Council, and home security system provider ADT teamed up to offer some valuable advice on keeping pets safe from home fires. Their recommendations began with equipping homes with smoke detectors and a fire detection system.

A home that is equipped with multiple layers of fire protection and defense will be less likely to suffer damages and result in pet injury. A smoke detector will alert any people inside the house to a fire, and a fire detection system will alert the authorities. If no one is home, the fire detection system can get the fire department to your home before your pets are harmed.

Another excellent way to protect pets from fire injuries is to put pet alert window clings on your windows. These stickers tell rescue personnel that there are pets in the home that need to be rescued in the event of an emergency. ADT provides these stickers at no charge.

If you have pet alert window clings on your windows, be sure to keep the information accurate and up to date. Listing the correct number of pets on the window clings will help ensure that rescue personnel look for all of the pets who may be inside the house.

Pet owners can also take steps toward preventing pet-related fires. It’s a little-known fact that pets can accidentally start fires. To avoid this tragic scenario, pet proof your home.

Don’t leave lit candles unattended around pets. Secure any cooking appliances that could be knocked over and start a fire, such as hot plates and electric skillets. Also secure any loose electrical wires and cords. Puppies and kittens love to chew on things and can seriously injure themselves or start a fire by chewing on a cord.

Restrict your pet’s access to rooms that contain hazards. If you can’t keep your pets away from potentially dangerous places or items, confine them to a safe room or a kennel while you are away from the home.

Preventing pet-related fires really can be as simple as using common sense and avoiding dangerous scenarios. And if a home fire should occur, an ADT fire detection system can get help out in a hurry and minimize the damage to your property and your furry and feathered friends.