Pets don't know to flee a home fire -- and instead, they hide.

As a result, tens of thousands of pets die in residential fires every year.

The American Veterinary Medical Foundation says 40,000 pets perish and up to half a million are injured in residential fires every year, according to its 2018 estimate.

The American Red Cross recommends including your family's pets in your emergency preparedness plan.

If your family has a disaster supplies kit, consider including pet supplies -- such as food, a toy, etc. -- in the event you'll need to leave your home. Arrange to have a place for your pets to stay -- at a family member's or a friend's house -- in case your home isn't habitable.

The Red Cross suggests including your pets when devising, practicing and discussing your emergency escape plan.

"When you practice your escape plan, practice taking your pets with you. Train them to come to you when you call," says the Red Cross advice.

While it's important to evacuate your pets in the event of an emergency, don't do it at the expense of your own safety.

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

Of course, pets can accidentally cause house fires. The National Fire Protection Association says that about 750 residential fires are caused by pets every year.

The American Kennel Club and ADT Security Services came up with a list of best practices around pets and accidental fires, according to the Red Cross.

Did you know that a stove or cooktop is the No. 1 piece of equipment involved in your pet starting a fire? To that end, the AKC and ADT recommend removing or protecting stove knobs before leaving the house.

Pets wag tails and curiosity always gets the best of a pet. That's why open flames -- gas stoves, candles or fireplaces -- are worth being wary about when it comes to your pets.

"Cats are notorious for starting fires when their tails turn over lit candles," their advice states.

HEADS UP FOR FIREFIGHTERS

The Red Cross suggests keeping your pets near an entrance to your home when you're away.

"When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them," according to the Red Cross.

The agency also suggests putting a pet alert sticker -- one that includes updated information about the pets inside -- to a front window.

"This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets," the Red Cross says.