(Photo courtesy: San Carlos City Public Information Office)

The month of March is not only known for its dry weather, but has also been declared Fire Prevention Month in the Philippines by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 115-A, s.1966,  to remind the public the importance of Fire Safety.

This year's theme, “Sa Pag-iwas sa Sunog, Hindi Ka Nag-iisa," (You are not alone in fire prevention) makes it even more crucial for pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their furry friends safe.

Fires can happen unexpectedly and can cause harm not only to people but also to pets. Here are some tips on how to keep your pets safe, especially during Fire Prevention Month:

• Create an evacuation plan: In case of a fire, make sure you have an evacuation plan that includes your pets. Identify a safe area where you and your pets can go in case of an emergency. It's important to practice this plan with your pets to make sure they are comfortable with it.
  
• Keep your pets' identification updated: In case your pets get lost during a fire, make sure their identification tags are up-to-date. This will make it easier for you to locate your pets if they are separated from you during an emergency.
• Keep your pets near you: During a fire, keep your pets near you and on a leash or in a carrier if possible. This will help you keep them safe and make it easier to evacuate them.
• Install smoke detectors at home when possible: Pet owners can install smoke detectors that are designed to detect fires and smoke. These detectors emit a high-pitched alarm that can alert pets of danger and help them evacuate.
• Keep flammable items away from pets: Keep flammable items such as candles, lighters, and matches away from pets. Pets may accidentally knock these items over and cause a fire.
• Train your pets to respond to commands: Pets should be trained to respond to commands such as "come," "stay," and "leave it." This will help you control your pets during an emergency and keep them away from danger.
  
• Keep a pet emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes food, water, medications, and first aid supplies for your pets. Keep this kit near the evacuation area so that you can easily grab it in case of an emergency.
  
• Keep your pets away from open flames: Pets should be kept away from open flames such as stoves, fireplaces, and candles. Pets may accidentally knock these over and cause a fire.
  
• Keep your pets in a safe area: If you're not home during the day, keep your pets in a safe area such as a crate or a room that's free of hazards. This will help prevent accidents and keep your pets safe in case of a fire.
  

In conclusion, keeping pets safe during Fire Prevention Month is important for pet owners. By following these tips, pet owners can keep their furry friends safe from harm in case of a fire. It's important to prepare for emergencies and practice evacuation plans to ensure that pets are comfortable and familiar with the process. By taking these precautions, pet owners can enjoy a safe and happy March with their beloved pets. (PIA-NCR)