The firefighters were able to save the tortoise, named Littlefoot, and stopped the potential fire before it could have caused significant damage.
Firefighters with Central Arizona Fire and Medical in Prescott Valley, AZ received a call from a homeowner, who reported smoke coming from a backyard enclosure. A reptile heat lamp fell into the bedding in the backyard shed where the tortoise was living, causing the bedding to smoke. The firefighters were able to save the tortoise, named Littlefoot, and stopped the potential fire before it could have caused significant damage.
The crew later did a check on Littlefoot and he is doing well. The crew also posted some tips on its Facebook page regarding outdoor heat lamps, which are exposed to weather and temperature changes that can create potential fire and electrical hazards. The tips are:
• Secure It: Use chains and secure hangers to prevent tipping.
• Distance: Keep lamps at lesat 18–20 inches from flammables.
• Check Often: Inspect cords, bulbs, and connections before use.
• No Extension Cords: Plug directly into a wall outlet.
• Right Bulb: Use the correct wattage for the enclosure.
• Ventilation: Make sure the space is well-ventilated.
Firefighters are the unsung heroes of many a reptile rescue. Earlier this month, firefighters in Florida saved a sulcata tortoise from a house fire. And a few years ago in England, firefighters rescued an escaped iguana from a rooftop as well as a pet corn snake named Anna Cornda who escaped its enclosure and had to be pulled from the roof of a two story house.
