[header] How to prevent your pets from accidentally starting a house fire [title] Keep your pet away from open flames. [step] This is the biggest and most obvious thing you can do to reduce the likelihood that your pet will accidentally cause a fire. Cats often accidentally knock over candles with their tails. 
Large dogs might lean against stove knobs and turn up the heat. If you're cooking on the range or using candles, make sure your pet stays away.