The statistics show that 40,000 pets are caught in fire each year. This led to the installation of life-saving oxygen masks for animals in Cambridge Fire and Rescue Service.
According to Peterborough Telegraph, there were six fire engines, which include one at Dogsthorpe Fire Station, will be having the life-saving oxygen masks. Each life-saving kit costs 90 pounds.
Firefighter Neil Hoskin fronted the trial of having oxygen masks for animals. "As a dog owner, I appreciate how important pets are to people. And as a Service, we do the best with the equipment we have but this new kit means we can go just that a bit further to help improve the chances of survival for a pet," he explained.
"Some pet owners live alone and rely on the company of animals for support, so this is just as important to their welfare as well as the pet in a stressful rescue of a fire situation," he continued. "We have in the past used human oxygen masks numerous times but they do not always work very well. These pet masks are specially designed to fit the faces of animals and will help our attempts to revive animals and every second count after an incident."
Meanwhile, the AKC Good Dog Helpline shared some fire prevention and escape measures for homeowners. They advise homeowners to install smoke detectors in each level of their houses located near the bedrooms. Fire extinguishers must also be placed in the garage, fireplace, near the kitchen and even in the laundry room.
To ensure fire safety, lighters and matches must be out of children's reach. Be mindful that you have the emergency numbers that are posted near your phone. Prepare for a fire-escape plan and have a particular place that you can meet outside your house. It is also essential to have a pet evacuation kit outside your house.
Switches and outlets must be covered especially in "dog living" areas. Keep an eye on your pets that might jump on the appliances particularly the stove and might accidentally turn it on. Lastly, it's actually best to pet proof your house.
