Fire house that banned pets changes its own rule after friendly stray cat called Bernice decided to move in

Wichita Fire Department Station 5 has changed its no-pets rule to welcome Bernice, a stray cat that found its way into the Kansas firehouse and became part of the crew. The change recognises her place in station life, where firefighters say she offers companionship and helps keep pests away.

Bernice has reportedly lived at the station for up to two years, after entering through an open boiler-room window; her age is unknown. Firefighters take turns feeding and caring for her, and the Wichita Police and Fire Foundation has given her a social media profile as “Firecat Bernice”. She has caught mice, lizards and a bat, and was once found on a fire engine after a call. One firefighter says her arrival also brought comfort after the death of colleague Ty Voth.