The safest way to protect your family, home and pets this winter is by keeping pets inside. However, if your pet must stay outside, take appropriate precautions.

Fires caused by improperly heated dog houses caused over $2 million in damages last winter. Using heat lamps, trouble lights, and other unsafe electrical methods for heating pet houses poses a serious fire risk. In many cases where these heating methods were used, the risk of fire damage was increased as the dog houses were located within 10 feet of the main residence.

While it is possible to heat a dog house by running a warm air or water supply from the main house, exposed piping can still be subject to chewing, potentially leading to water damage and/or failure of water heating systems. Check out your local pet store for safe heating options and remember that any heating device must be installed by a licensed electrician. By choosing a safe heating system, you will be protecting your dog, your home and your family.