CHAPEL HILL - Chapel Hill and Carrboro firefighters will be equipped to potentially save a pet's life in the event of a house fire, thanks to pet oxygen masks donated to every Chapel Hill and Carrboro fire station.

"Our commitment to pet safety extends beyond electronic pet containment by funding deserving projects that help keep pets safe at home," said Vance Bryson of Invisible Fence of Raleigh. "By donating pet oxygen masks, we hope to help save more pets and prevent pet owners from losing a beloved four-legged family member while dealing with the devastation from the fire."

Because of fear or smoke, a pet may become confused and unable to exit. Dogs are more likely to find their way out because they are used to exiting a residence regularly. Indoor cats tend to hide fearfully, not being familiar with using doors to get out. Much like humans, pets trapped in fires need oxygen treatment because of the respiratory effects of smoke inhalation.

The donation of these specially designed and potentially lifesaving pet oxygen masks will enable first responders to efficiently administer oxygen to a stricken animal. The pet oxygen mask kit features a specially designed cone mask that fits over a pet's snout and connects to a portable oxygen tank. Side vents help facilitate breathing and a more consistent flow of 100 percent oxygen.

"We would like to thank The Invisible Fence Company for the donation of five pet oxygen masks," said Deputy Chief Caprice Mellon of the Chapel Hill Fire department. "We have a few masks that were donated to the department several years ago but due to wear and tear, are in need of being replaced. This generous donation allows Chapel Hill Fire Department to place a pet oxygen mask on five of our six primary response units which increases the likelihood of having this life saving device on the scene of an emergency incident."

It is estimated that 40,000 to 150,000 pets die each year in fires; most succumbing to smoke inhalation, and that more than 500,000 pets are affected by home fires each year.