For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2017
Contact:
Brooke Rossi 202-483-7382
Medicine Hat, Alberta – As a wildfire threatens Hilda, and because an evacuation notice has been issued animals must be kept indoors and will die if abandoned during any evacuations that may occur. This information will undoubtedly save many animals’ lives and avoid much human remorse.
Residents in areas affected by smoke and falling ash should keep animals indoors and avoid all outdoor activities, such as running with dogs. If visibility is less than 5 miles, smoke has compromised the air quality and reached unsafe levels. Anyone who sees animals in distress and is unable to help, should note their locations and alert authorities immediately.
Our wildfire-preparedness public service announcement reminds everyone to make plans to ensure the safety of animal companions in advance of trouble in order to avoid being caught unprepared. For more information, please visit PETA.org.
If conditions worsen and evacuation becomes necessary, animals must never be left behind. Anyone who evacuates and intentionally abandons animals to fend for themselves may be prosecuted.
