Fire Safety for Dog Owners

We’re honoured to welcome Fire Chief Dave Upper of St. Catharines, Ontario, as a guest contributor to the Big Country Raw Master Class. With over 30 years of experience in the fire service, Chief Upper has seen firsthand how quickly fire emergencies can unfold - and how they impact not only people, but pets as well.

As a passionate advocate for public safety and animal welfare, Chief Upper is here to share some crucial advice for pet parents in recognition of National Pet Fire Safety Day. Whether it’s knowing how to include your dog in a fire escape plan or preparing a pet emergency kit, his tips are practical, experience-driven, and could one day save a life - human or those with paws.

Please join us in thanking Chief Upper for taking the time to help our community stay safe, informed, and ready to protect the entire family.

Fire Safety for Dog Owners: 5 Essential Tips to Keep Your Pup Protected

In my 30-plus years in the fire service, we have seen too many unfortunate outcomes with fire incidents and the family dog. One such incident involved a pot of oil that overheated, caught fire and started a kitchen fire. The son had attempted to pick up the pot and remove it from the house. Sadly, he had a collision in the kitchen with the family rottweiler. Resulting in significant burns to both the son and the dog.

When we think about fire safety, we often focus on our families, homes, and belongings - but what about our four-legged family members? Dogs can be curious, energetic, and sometimes unpredictable, which makes planning ahead even more important. Here are five practical fire safety tips every dog owner should follow to help protect their furry friend in an emergency:

1. Keep Your Dog at Least 1 Meter Away from Stoves and BBQs

Dogs are naturally drawn to delicious smells, but kitchen appliances and grills are dangerous places for pets. Keep your dog at least one meter away from stoves and barbecues, and if your knobs are easy to turn, remove them when not in use to prevent accidental ignition.

2. Include Your Dog in Your Escape Plan

Just like the rest of your household, your dog should be part of your fire escape plan and fire drills - both at home and at work. Practice calling your dog to a safe exit and make sure they know where to go in case of an emergency.

3. Pack a ‘Go Bag’ for Your Dog

If you ever need to evacuate, having a ready-to-go bag for your dog is essential. Include items like a leash, any medications they may need, food, water, and a portable bowl. Having these essentials prepared will save precious time during a crisis.

4. Choose Flameless Candles

A happy wagging tail can easily knock over a traditional candle, leading to disaster. Swap open-flame candles for flameless, battery-powered ones to reduce fire risk while keeping your home cozy.

5. Train Your Dog to React to Smoke Alarms

The sound of a smoke detector can be scary for pets, causing them to hide or panic. Train your dog to associate the sound with positive action - such as going to a safe spot or coming to you - so you can safely guide them out in case of an emergency.

Final Thoughts

Taking a few proactive steps can make a big difference in keeping your dog safe from fire hazards. By planning ahead and practicing regularly, you’ll not only protect your pup but also bring yourself peace of mind knowing you’re ready for the unexpected.

Stay safe - and give your dog an extra cuddle for being part of the team!