Tag Archives: Not just fires

New Forest wildfires highlight why animals must be included in emergency planning

Posted on 11/08/2026 by Neil

BARTA are concerned that prolonged high temperatures create conditions which place animals at extreme risk. Domestic, agricultural, equestrian and wildlife environments are more vulnerable because forests, heathland, fields, hedges and verges are tinder dry. This means that a fire approaching a property is hotter, faster and not slowed by traditionally green vegetation protecting its boundary. BARTA Director Jim Green said “Our thoughts are with emergency responders currently working in exceptionally difficult heat and terrain, as well as commoners, land managers and local communities affected by an incident started by a van fire on the A31 in the New Forest. We encourage emergency planners, landowners, veterinary providers, rural businesses, government and animal keepers to use this high profile incident as an opportunity to review their own emergency and evacuation arrangements. BARTA’s mission is to ensure animals are safeguarded along with people … Continue reading →

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New MoU Between NFCC and BARTA

Posted on 20/01/2026 by Neil

NFCC and BARTA renew commitment to protecting animals in emergencies National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the British Animal Rescue and Trauma Care Association (BARTA) have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The partnership strengthens best practice in responding to incidents involving animals, supporting public safety, animal welfare, and safe working practices for firefighters through evidence-based guidance and training. The Animal Rescue Practitioners Forum (ARPF) will continue to provide a key platform for sharing knowledge and embedding animal welfare within emergency response planning. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the British Animal Rescue and Trauma Care Association (BARTA), reaffirming their shared commitment to safeguarding animal welfare, public safety, and supporting safe practices for firefighters at incidents involving animals. The MoU builds on more than a decade of collaboration, first established in … Continue reading →

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