Anchorage, Alaska — On January 10, the Anchorage Fire Department responded to a fire at the North Pointe Apartments on Richardson Vista Road in the Government Hill area. Despite the fact that the blaze had engulfed at least four apartments, everyone—with the exception of the residents' companion animals—had escaped to safety. The firefighters entered the building and rescued six cats, three dogs, and a bird.
For saving the lives of every animal threatened by the fire, the Anchorage Fire Department will receive PETA's Compassionate Fire Department Award.
"Anchorage's bravest are also some of Anchorage's kindest," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "We hope that the firefighters' compassion will inspire others always to come to the aid of animals in need."
The fire department will receive a framed certificate, a letter of appreciation, and a box of vegan chocolates. Some Anchorage fire engines are equipped with resuscitation masks made specially to fit small animals. PETA will also furnish the department with additional masks.
This is the second time this month that Anchorage firefighters have saved the lives of animals trapped in a fire. On January 3, the department responded to a fire on Eureka Street in Midtown and rescued four cats and two coy fish. Unfortunately, three other cats perished in that fire.
For more information, please visit PETA.org.
Press release from PETA