FIREFIGHTERS in Surrey are being equipped with special oxygen masks to help save the lives of pets they rescue from blazes.

Instead of relying on masks designed for people when trying to revive pets pulled from smoke-filled homes, fire crews will be able to use equipment shaped to fit animals.

The pet masks will be initially carried on fire engines in Reigate and Banstead and could eventually be installed on engines across Surrey Fire and Rescue Service.

They have been provided by non-profit company Smokey Paws thanks to a donation from Kate Capper, a Reigate vicar and pet lover.

The masks come in three sizes – large for dogs, medium-sized for cats and little dogs and small for pets like hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits.

Kay Hammond, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet associate for community safety services, said: “Pets are part of the family for many people and while our firefighters work hard to revive rescued animals using the equipment they already carry, these specially-designed kits mean they will be able to give pets an even better chance of survival.

“We are grateful to Kate Capper for this kind and generous donation.”

Smokey Paws is encouraging donations to allow pet oxygen masks to be made available to other fire stations in Surrey and around the country.

For more information or to donate, visit the website smokeypaws.co.uk.