Dog Starts Condo Fire After South Jersey Homeowners Made This Common Mistake

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ — A hungry pooch started a condo fire last week in South Jersey. But rather than blaming it on the dog, authorities hope pet parents can take note and prevent similar incidents.

Upstairs neighbors smelled smoke and called 911 at a multi-family home early Tuesday in Washington Township. Firefighters forced their way into the downstairs unit on Pratt Court and pulled a dog out of the smoky condo.

Nobody was at home during the fire, and no injuries were reported. The fire was quickly extinguished, officials said.

During the fire investigation, crews found a burner knob in the "on" position and remains of dog food on top of the stove.

"After speaking with the homeowner, it was confirmed that dog food was on top of the stove and that his dog was known to jump up on the counter," said the Washington Township Fire Department. "It was determined that the dog accidentally turned on the burner and started a fire in the kitchen."

This happens more than you'd think, according to Washington Township firefighters, who responded to a similar incident a few years ago.

Firefighters urged the public not to leave anything on the stove.

For pet owners, firefighters also recommend the following:

• Pet-proof your stove: Consider using stove knob covers to prevent accidental activation.
• Secure the area: Keep flammable items away from the stove.
• Install and test smoke alarms: Ensure that alarms are placed in strategic locations, and test them regularly.
• Develop a fire-escape plan: Practice escape routes with your pets, and arrange for their care in emergencies.
• Be aware of your pet's behavior: Some dogs may be drawn to the stove for warmth, increasing the risk of a fire starting.

On their Facebook page, Washington Township firefighters urged people not to post anything negative about the homeowner and said the story was shared with their permission.