Best Practices in Oklahoma For Helping Wildlife During Dangerous Wildfire

As the fires continue here in southwest Oklahoma, many folks have been expressing concern over the firefighters, homes and businesses affected. Luckily, there has been an enormous amount of support from various communities coming together to help families and first responders. As for the wildlife affected by the fire, there are a few things you can do to help.

Volunteers Everywhere Helping Both Families and Firefighters

Folks in Elgin, Apache, Lawton and other surrounding areas have been teaming up to put together necessities for the fires. Some groups are asking for donations like food, clothes, baby wipes, even chapstick.

Several businesses have prepared just to serve firefighters and give them rest while doing their duty.

Since certain areas were evacuated, many families faced more than just one big dilemma. Several folks needed a safe space for all of their family members, including livestock and family pets. Luckily, there have been open arms from local veterinary hospitals, offering a safe stay for pets.

There have also been various volunteers offering their land, pens, stalls and spaces to house large animals and livestock for those needing a refuge.

What To Do If You See Wildlife Escaping The Rush Fire

As the fire dies down and hopefully comes to a close, some folks near the 1,500 acres burned may start to see wildlife running away from the fire. There are a few important things to consider about Oklahoma's widlife.

Although it isn't likely that they don't have space to escape the fire on the refuge itself, since the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge has an entire acres of land entirely, anything can happen.

If you happen to see a downed animal, don't assume that it needs help. According to the BCSPCA, you should only assume an animal may need help if:

• There are obvious signs of injury (burns, blood, wounds, etc.)
• They have been hit by a car, hit a window, or been caught by a pet
• They seem ‘sleepy’ or don’t respond when you approach
• They seem dizzy or disoriented, or stumble and fall when they move
• They are a baby and have been crying for a long time, are covered in bugs, or are cold and not moving very much

If you do see an animal in need, you can report it to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation at . Keep in mind that they may not be readily available as they continue to fight the fires, but it's important not to try to handle wild animals on your own.

Click here for more updates on the wildfires happening in Oklahoma.