Sometimes we forget the impact fires have on animals. But in the midst of battling fires across the state, CFA firefighters have taken the time to help and rescue displaced and injured animals including possums, wallabies, cows and koalas.
Firefighters Hellie Aitken from Hampton Park and Mark Whitmore from Narre Warren North were at the Grantville fires when they helped rescue an injured wallaby. Once safely caught by Mark, Helen, together with a member of Ambulance Victoria, gave some much-needed water and food to the wallaby and cleaned its injured feet before it was taken into care by Werribee Zoo.
While out monitoring the areas surrounding the Walhalla - Stoney Creek fires, a crew from Traralgon East Fire Brigade came across some very thirsty cows owned by a fellow volunteer who himself was working on the fires.
Member Paul Ellis gave the grateful cows some much needed water from their truck.
Firefighters from Narre Warren North and Bunyip brigades rescued possums from the fires at Grantville.
On their way home from their night shift at the Ruffy fire in the state’s north, the slip-on crew from Buxton Fire Brigade came across a very stubborn koala (now named Ruffy) that refused to move for the vehicle unless he first got a drink.
Animals are particularly vulnerable during times of extreme heat. View our top tips for assisting wildlife and companion animals to stay safe and well this summer.
Photos courtesy of Narre Warren North, Bunyip, Pearcedale, and Hampton Park fire brigades.
STAY INFORMED
Stay up-to-date with emergency information:
·Be prepared for the summer and make sure you’re connected to all emergency sources:
·Tune in to ABC local radio, commercial and designated radio stations or Sky News TV.
·Download the VicEmergency app - allow push notifications for warnings, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans.
·Add www.emergency.vic.gov.au to your favourites list on your internet browser.
·Enter the VicEmergency Hotline 1800 226 226 into your phone contacts.
·Connect with VicEmergency or CFA Twitter and Facebook accounts.
·For the latest information on park conditions and closures, visit www.parks.vic.gov.au
Author: Shaunnagh O'Loughlin