If you've got cats or dogs, it's worth taking a minute to determine if your fireplace, stove, or outdoor fire pit are "pet friendly." While pets aren't as likely to get into matches or start playing around with burning logs as kids, there are dangers to be aware of for them too.
Fire Safety for Households with Pets
- An indoor fireplace should have a fire screen or glass fireplace doors to keep sparks from flying out (especially if your dogs or cats like to bask in front of a crackling fire!).
- Don't leave fires burning unattended, indoors or outdoors.
- If your pets can't resist snooping close to the flames, consider a fireplace gate such as the ones we've talked about before from Hearthgate (great for keeping kids safe too).
- Don't place pet beds or furniture too close to the flames (even if your pets like to cozy up to the warmth).
It's not too hard to keep Fido or Fifi from getting burned, but they'll certainly be unappreciative if you're not careful and sparks fly into their fur!
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