The combined efforts of the Kennel Club and ADT Security Services led to the first Pet Fire Safety Day being held in the late 2000s. The idea behind the event is to make pet owners aware of the hazards their beloved cat, dog, or other animals could pose in the home with regard to fire.

Many fires are caused by pets, especially when they are left alone in a property and the intention is that by highlighting the dangers to owners it can help in preventing them.

Pet owners should take advantage of the day to discuss who in a home is responsible for helping a pet escape in the event of a blaze and carry out some practice escape drills.

They can also use Kennel Club advice to pet proof their home against fires and install a pet alert notice in a window for use by emergency services.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL PET FIRE SAFETY DAY

While our animals are oftentimes the culprit behind devastating fires, it’s a little ironic that dogs (specifically dalmations) have become an American icon associated with firefighters today. Let’s briefly explore how that came to be. A few hundred years ago, dogs were trained to trot alongside horse-drawn wagons and protect their occupants (and horses) from harm. Dalmations quickly became the ideal carriage dog for their strength, vitality, fortitude, and size. They also had a reputation for getting along well with horses and were known to have a calming effect while firefighters were battling a blaze. Overtime as motorized fire trucks replaced carriages, Dalmatians and other fire pups were seen less aboard fire trucks and more as on-site firehouse residents and mascots.

Today, many firefighters have pet Dalmatians, and firehouses around the country still have Dalmatians as station dogs. However, Dalmatians aren’t the only dog in the firehouse. It’s become common for firefighters (and sometimes entire fire teams) to adopt dogs rescued from fires. These lucky pups, whatever their breed, become symbols of the resiliency, bravery, and fortitude of firefighters and the individuals they help. They also take important steps into education and helping firefighters demonstrate fire safety and emergency preparedness for schools and community groups across the country. Teaching that pets cause over 1,000 house fires each year in the United States and the preventive measures we can take to protect our beloved companions.

5 FACTS ABOUT PET FIRE SAFETY

1. Pyro Pets

   Pets cause over 1,000 house fires each year in the United States

2. A Big Problem

   Nearly 360,000 house fires occur each year in the United States.

3. Save a Life

   Over 40,000 pets die every year in house fires. Awareness can save lives.

4. Furry (and Slithering) Heroes

   There are thousands of stories about pets, even snakes, saving humans from house fires.

5. Have a Plan

   The #1 tip is to have an escape plan that includes your pets.

NATIONAL PET FIRE SAFETY DAY DATES