Parrot saves family from fire
2008-07-21 14:06
London - A British homeowner plans to reward his family's pet parrot after it saved them from a fire by frantically squawking to wake them up, a report said on Monday.
Bob, an African grey, may even get a new mate after raising the alarm as the blaze took hold early on Sunday morning in the family home in Hampshire, southern England.
The blaze broke out in the kitchen, but as it spread into the lounge Bob's squawking became increasingly desperate, waking up Francis Hall and his two sons.
"I'm definitely going to get him a treat - some new toys, a swing, a bell and a mirror," the 59-year-old told the Southern Daily Echo newspaper.
"It might be the right time to get him a mate. I've been thinking about an outdoor cage. Now the house is having to be re-done, this might be the time to do it," he said.
The family suffered smoke inhalation, but three-year-old Bob was unscathed after they grabbed him as they fled.
Sam, Hall's 18-year-old son added: "I used to find Bob very annoying with his growling and squawking. But not now. He is a legend. He saved our lives. We just got out in time."