Running a wildlife rescue, we've seen it all – the distress of trapped birds, the frantic calls for help, and the dedication of our some of the Fire Service teams in rescuing these poor creatures. Birds caught in roof netting is not just about wildlife entrapment; it's about the misuse of crucial public resources.  The only service that can often reach them is the Fire and Rescue Service.

The number of birds needing rescue from poorly installed or maintained roof netting is alarming. Homeowners often underestimate the danger their netting poses to wildlife, leading to unnecessary harm to birds and wasted fire services resources. Poorly fitted netting by rogue companies and 'handymen' often lead to birds being trapped, ending in serious injury and death.

Nationally, so many birds are reported trapped annually. Although a human emergency would always take precedent, the Fire and Rescue  Services do attend when they are not on an active fire call. Each of these instances requires mobilising personnel, deploying vehicles, and engaging equipment resources.

By charging householders who arrange the installation of roof netting that leads to a bird becoming trapped, we create an accountability system that encourages adherence to safer practices. Not only would this financial penalty help reduce the occurrences of entrapment, but it would also relieve the unnecessary stress on Fire and Rescue Services, allowing them to focus on priorities such as attending to fires and rescuing individuals in severe car accidents or domestic emergencies.

Let's protect our wildlife, uphold the integrity of our emergency responders, and ensure public funds and resources are directed where they are most needed. Join us in petitioning for a policy that holds homeowners accountable for the avoidable misuse of fire services. Sign this petition to create a safer environment for both birds and emergency personnel.