July 15 has been named National Pet Fire Safety Day to help bring awareness about how pets can accidentally start home fires.

Not many pet owners realize that their pet can actually be the cause of a devastating fire.

Dogs and cats are curious. Here are some examples of what can happen:

• Your large dog attempts to reach the freshly baked cake or pizza box sitting on your stove top and accidentally paws the gas burner switch “on”.

• Your dog or cat’s tail swishes past the burning candle knocking it over.

• Your puppy chews through the low-hanging electrical cord causing a fire.

• Your cat jumps onto your stove top and inadvertently turns on your burner knob.

• Your pet investigates the glowing charcoals and flames in your fireplace or firepit.

To prevent your Pet from starting fires:

• Never leave your pet unattended around an open flame such as fireplaces, firepits, candles or barbecue grills.

• Secure or unplug wires/cords which could become chew toys for your pet

• Use stove knob covers or remove the knobs so they cannot be turned on in your absence.

• Keep your dog’s collar on at all times and place leashes near the door so first responders can use them to lead pets to safety. Dogs are often waiting at doors and run out when firefighters come in.

• Use flameless candles for all occasions and for power outages.

• Place a sticker on the front and back door or window to let rescuers know that there are pets inside the house and the number.

• Whenever you are not at home, keep your pets near an entrance in case a rescue is necessary. Close the doors to bathrooms or bedrooms so your pets can be easily found by firefighters.

• Frequently check your entire home for potential fire hazards such as loose wires, hair dryers, irons, space heaters or any other hazardous items.

• Do not allow your dog to lay on an electric blanket unattended.

• Ensure batteries are operational in all smoke alarms or install a centrally monitored fire alarm system.

Fires started by pets are almost always due to owners mistakenly leaving their animals in dangerous situations.

Don’t let it be your home!