FIRE chiefs have backed away from proposals to charge animal lovers for rescuing dogs and cats in danger as part of a major brigade review.

Bosses at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service had considered whether to provide a response when they encounter cases of family pets placed in peril.

But as part of its latest integrated risk manage-ment plan, the service is recommending that firefighters should still have an involvement in pet rescues, where life and limb is at risk.

Less serious cases will be referred to other agencies, such as the RSPCA, for a more appropriate level of response, say fire chiefs.

The brigade is also revising its policy on what level of assistance it will offer in lifting obese people - no charge will be made to individuals in distress.

But the fire service will consider imposing a charge on any agency or organisation which request such help in future.

In future the brigade also intends to charge commercial, industrial and agricultural premises for any help offered during floodings.