Birmingham Fire and Rescue placing “pet” oxygen masks on all their rescue trucks

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Birmingham Fire and Rescue is getting new gear to help keep some of our most beloved family members safe.

Department leaders have secured special oxygen masks that can be used on both cats and dogs. Battalion Chief Clay Hendon said over the next few weeks they will place the new masks on every rescue unit in the city.

“Our fire department administration was able to secure another asset for the department that will serve the citizens better in the community for house fires where our furry family members get trapped in a house fire,” said Hendon.

The masks come in three different sizes, so no matter the size of your pet, BFRS will be better equipped to save their life. Previously, fire fighters were having to use human masks and Hendon said that was far less effective.

Chief Hendon hopes by spreading the word on the department’s newest piece of gear, they are able to save not only more pets, but people too. He said one tragedy they see far too often is someone will safely escape their home when it catches fire and then they will try to go back in to get their pet.

“That is something we deal with routinely too, and we are hoping the community knows now that we have an asset and tool available to us. We can resuscitate your pet after we bring them out so you don’t risk your life to go back in after you’ve safely gotten out.”

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