Hero Firefighter Saved A Dog That Fell Through Ice In Braintree
What you’re about to see will prove the importance of our local firefighters. Not only do they save lives, firefighters save more than people. A local Braintree firefighter saved a dog.
250 million Americans are about to feel above-average temperatures by the end of the week after weeks of bitter cold. Here in New England, we should see 50 degrees by Friday. These wide swings in temperature could mean more danger on ponds that seem frozen. In the last few days we’ve seen story after story of people falling through the ice, needing to be rescued. You would think a human can logically reason and know when ice is not safe. But what about our furry friends?
Braintree Firefighter Saved A Dog
It’s a simple headline that immediately gets out attention. When we hear about a poor dog struggling in frozen ice water to stay alive, we immediately think that could be OUR dog. Is he or she ok?
Well thanks to a quick thinking Braintree firefighter, Rupert is ok!
According to WCVB:
At around 8:30 a.m, firefighters were called for a report of a dog through the ice at the end of Edgehill Road. Firefighters said the dog, named Rupert, fell through the broken ice and was hanging on with his front paws. One of the firefighters put on a wetsuit and, using a rope and lifesaver ring, was able to carry Rupert safely to shore. Rupert was reunited with his family.
Having knowledge of frozen ice can save lives. According to Mass.gov:
- New ice is stronger than old ice. Four inches of clear, newly formed ice may support one person on foot, while a foot or more of old, partially thawed ice may not.
- Ice doesn’t freeze uniformly. Continue to check ice conditions frequently as you venture out onto the ice.
- Ice formed over flowing water and currents is often more dangerous. Avoid traveling onto ice-bound rivers and streams, as the currents make ice thickness unpredictable. Many lakes and ponds may contain spring holes and other areas of currents that can create deceptively dangerous thin spots.
- Tell someone your plans, including where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Come prepared. Carry a cell phone in case of emergency. Always carry ice picks and rope with you on the ice. In case of emergency, drive the nails into the ice and pull yourself to safety while kicking (see tips for falling in below).
- Wear your life jacket. If you fall in, a life jacket will keep you at the surface and can provide insulation against the effects of cold water.
- Remember, dog’s cannot not read this. So keep an eye on them!
