When we think about fire safety for our dogs, most of us imagine candles, heaters, or overloaded power boards. But there’s one hidden danger in many homes that quietly causes fires every year: stove knobs.

It might sound far-fetched, but it happens more often than you think. A wagging tail, a curious paw, or even a dog hopping up to sniff something on the counter can accidentally nudge a knob just enough to turn on a gas burner or electric element. Within minutes, you could have smoke, flames, or dangerous fumes filling your kitchen.

The Real-Life Risk

Fire departments around the world have responded to many fires started by pets accidentally switching on stoves. Gas stoves are particularly risky, because a slow leak of gas without a flame can cause an explosion risk. Electric stoves are just as dangerous. They heat up very quickly, igniting nearby tea towels, paper, or even cooking oil.

Your dog doesn’t have to be “naughty” to cause it, they’re just being a dog. Jumping to investigate smells or licking a plate left near the stove is completely natural behaviour.

Simple Fix: Use Knob Covers

The good news? This is one of the easiest fire safety fixes you can make. Stove knob covers are inexpensive, easy to install, and available at most homeware or baby-safety stores.

They work just like childproofing equipment, by covering the knobs so they can’t be turned accidentally.

You can also:

• Remove the knobs when not in use (store them in a drawer).
• Switch to back burners for cooking so your dog can’t reach.
• Install a safety gate to block off the kitchen when you’re not home.

When You’re Away

Never leave the stove on unattended, especially with pets in the home. If you’re heading out, do a quick “kitchen check” to make sure:

• All burners are off.
• No flammable items are left on or near the stovetop.
• The area is blocked off if your dog is prone to counter surfing.

Bottom Line

Fire safety for dogs isn’t just about protecting them from a fire, it’s also about preventing them from accidentally starting one. A $12 set of knob covers could save your home, your pet, and even your life.

So, next time you’re in the kitchen, take a look at those stove knobs and ask yourself: “Could my dog turn these?” If the answer is yes, it’s time to take action.