Residents urged to make Fido fire plans

FOOTHILLS residents are being urged to make fire evacuation plans for their family pets.
Knox City Council said making a plan for the family pet is as simple as following five easy steps.
Owners should identify pets with either a microchip or registration tag, and make sure pets can travel away from home in case a bushfire does strike.
Also make sure vaccinations are current because if evacuation is necessary the family dog may need to be put into a boarding kennel.
Pet owners should also make sure their animals are kept securely restrained or confined because in a bushfire they can panic and run off.
The final step to remember is to prepare evacuation kits, which include pet food and water bowls.
Local laws coordinator Elke Tapley said planning for pets and bushfire was all about using common sense.
“A bit of forward planning will save your pets’ lives in the event of a fire,” she said.
Ms Tapley has also urged residents to keep their household pets inside during days of high fire danger so they are on hand in case of evacuation.