Keep pets part of the plan: CFA

REGIONAL residents are being urged by the CFA and RSPCA to include pets in their bushfire survival plans, amid the significant fire activity already impacting Victoria this summer. Having bedding, food, and water ready-to-go for family animals could save valuable time in the event of a fire. CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said it was important to be ready on high-risk bushfire days to leave residences early. "While you should always prioritise your own safety ahead of your pets, your bushfire plan isn’t fully complete unless it accounts for them," Mr Heffernan said. "When creating a plan, consider what your pets will eat and drink, how you will transport them, and where you are taking them. "Once you have your kit prepared, keep it somewhere that’s easily accessible." Mr Heffernan also said towels and woollen blankets should be kept close by to protect pets during the journey, and to keep the animals as cool as possible. "Another valuable step is microchipping pets for easy identification and ensuring your phone number is visible on their collar." Horses and livestock require a separate plan which involves - if the animals cannot be evacuated - being relocated to a large, well-grazed, and fenced area where they can move freely with access to water, away from roads. "Make sure you’re prepared; late evacuation will put you and your animals at risk." RSPCA Victoria CEO Liz Walker reiterated the importance of including pets in bushfire survival plans. “Planning for emergencies is such a crucial part of life in Victoria, particularly during the summer months,” Dr Walker said. “Many people across the state already have a fire-ready plan in place, and we’re urging everyone to make sure their pets are included too. “Our pets are such an important part of our lives.” More information can be found at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/pets

Keep pets part of the plan: CFA

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