London Fire Brigade tells public cats stuck in trees are not their problem

The London Fire Brigade has told members public not to waste their time with animal related incidents, urging people to call the RSPCA instead.

New figures released by the London Fire Brigade say they rescued 539 animals across the capital last year

Figures showed the fire brigade is called to 10 animal related incidents per week. With puppies stuck in pushchairs and hamsters stuck in skirting boards just some of the incidents dealt with by firefighters.

Mark Hazelton, London Fire Brigade group manager said: “Most cats find their own way back down trees so if you see an animal in distress, please call the RSPCA first who can judge whether they need our help.

“As these figures show, we are spending a lot of time being called out to help animals that could often be assisted by the RSPCA. Firefighters love animals too and we will always help if the RSPCA need us to, but we should only be called for real emergencies.”

Cats made up almost half of all animals rescued by the fire brigade, but they claim to have rescued 100 different species of animal.

Hazelton added: “But I do just want to reiterate that it’s always best to contact the RSPCA in the first instance, and if they require our assistance, they will call us and we are happy to assist with our specialist equipment.”