A dramatic New Year's Day rescue saw heroic firefighters in Rhode Island save a yellow Labrador who had fallen through the ice on a frozen pond.
A Chilling Morning Walk
The incident occurred on Thursday, January 1st, just before 9am at Little Masachaug Pond. According to the Misquamicut Fire Department, the dog, named Phoenix, was out for a morning walk with his owner when he wandered onto the pond's surface. The thin ice near the centre gave way, plunging the pet into the frigid water.
Upon arrival, volunteer firefighters found Phoenix struggling in the water, unable to move, while his distressed owner watched from the shore. The situation required an immediate and specialised response.
The Icy Water Rescue
Acting swiftly, members from both the Misquamicut Fire Department and a neighbouring crew donned ice rescue suits and entered the freezing pond. Dramatic footage captured the moment crews jumped into the icy water and swam out to the stranded dog.
"Members from both fire departments quickly donned ice rescue suits and entered the pond, making a swift and successful rescue," the fire department stated. The rescuers carried Phoenix back to shore, where he was safely reunited with his owner.
All Safe and a Stern Warning
Thankfully, the outcome was positive for all involved. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) evaluated the firefighters for hypothermia at the scene, and all were cleared. Phoenix was also checked over and given a clean bill of health.
Deputy Chief Steve Howard of the Misquamicut Fire Department remarked on the dog's calm demeanour, telling ABC News, "It was the chillest dog I've ever seen in my life. The dog never made a sound. He was pretty chill." He added that Phoenix received some extra food and a nap to recover from the ordeal.
The fire department used the incident to issue a crucial public safety reminder: "Reminder: No ice is ever safe. Our firefighters train extensively for cold water and ice rescues, but these situations are extremely dangerous."
The rescue was celebrated on social media as the firefighters' first of the new year, with many praising their bravery. The event also sparked a conversation about pet safety, with several commentators emphasising the importance of keeping dogs on leashes near hazardous areas.
