From Staff Reports

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Wylie Fire-Rescue has received a donation of five pet oxygen mask kits, one for each of the three fire stations, and two for ambulances as part of Project Breathe. The kits were donated from Invisible Fence Brand of Greater Dallas.

Each kit includes a small, medium and large mask to accommodate different pet sizes. The masks are shaped to seal tightly around animals’ muzzles, enabling firefighters to deliver life-saving oxygen and protecting the first responder from an injured animal that may bite out of fear.

“We are pleased to receive any tool that aids us in our efforts to keep the Wylie community safe,” said Fire Chief Brent Parker. “Although preservation of human life is our top priority, we are grateful to Invisible Fence for this donation that will help us save the lives of family pets.”

Bobby Swan and Erica Longbine of IF visited Wylie’s Fire Station No. 3 May 12 to deliver the masks. “When people lose their home, some of our most thankful moments are when we can resuscitate an animal overcome by smoke,” Swan said. “Countless pets’ lives have been saved by these masks, which is our mission. We’re glad to be able to provide this equipment to Wylie firefighters.”

Tens of thousands of pets die each year in fires. Through Project Breathe, over 4,000 kits, valued at approximately $250 each, have been donated to fire departments throughout the U.S. and Canada.