Keeping Your Pets Safe Near Fireplaces

Pets are part of the family. They want to be everywhere the family is, and that includes up close to the fireplace. Like kids, pets can get rambunctious and sometimes get too close to the fire. There are some precautions that you should consider before lighting the fire. Teaching the rest of the family to keep Fido under control is important as well. 

Training Your Pet

Teach your pet as you would your children. Let them know when they are too close to the fire. Constant reminders are needed, especially with a puppy.

Don’t let your furry friend get too close to the fire. Just like you and I, we like the warmth of the fire. Often cuddling up close. Be sure to keep your pet far enough away so embers don’t pop out of the fire and singe your pet. 

Clear Your Hearth

Keeping a minimal amount of decorations and toys away from the hearth will discourage your pet from being curious and wanting to play with items that are sitting there. Your pet may love his bed in front of the fire, but don’t allow it. Embers can cause the fabric to ignite. A professional chimney sweep can also help ensure your fireplace is safe and free from hazards that could put your pets at risk.

Glass Doors or Screen

Use a 41

5on your fireplace opening. This will keep embers in the firebox away from your pet. You may even consider a gate that would stand in front of the fireplace. This will give your pet extra distance away from any danger. A fire screen will allow a distance away from the fire and keep embers in a concealed area. 

No Fooling Around

Avoid roughhousing while the fire is lit. Dogs get very excited while playing and forget what is around them. Avoid an accident and calmly enjoy the fire with your buddy. There is plenty of time for rough play.

Don’t Leave Your Pet Alone

Leaving your pet in an unoccupied room is unacceptable. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Be sure to leave a human in the room if you have to leave, or bring Fido with you.

Make Sure The Fire Is Out

As the night or day lingers on, and you are planning on leaving the house or going to bed, be sure that the fire is completely out. You can do this by dousing it with water and stirring the embers. 

Pets are a precious part of our family. Keeping them safe is of the utmost importance. Taking these precautions will allow you to enjoy the warmth of your fireplace with the entire family.

Expert Chimney Inspections and Sweeps You Can Trust

When you are ready for your annual inspection and chimney sweep, call Felgemacher Fireplace Shop. We are a third-generation chimney and fireplace company, dedicated to giving you the best quality and craftsmanship in Western New York.

We currently look at over 2000 chimneys each year and can give you the confidence that we are educated on every aspect of your chimney. Our owners are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America, National Fireplace Institute, and National Chimney Sweep Guild, yielding the highest quality of expertise for our customers.