Firefighters Rescue Dog Trapped in SoCal Storm Drain

Crews battled rising floodwaters to save the pup during heavy rains.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Firefighters in San Bernardino, California were captured on video working to rescue a dog trapped in a storm drain as heavy rains battered the region. The crews from the San Bernardino County Fire Department, Public Works, and Animal Services worked together to free the pup from behind a drainage gate as floodwaters rushed through the area.

Why it matters

Extreme weather events like heavy rainstorms can pose serious dangers to both people and animals, requiring quick action from first responders to save lives. This rescue highlights the important role firefighters and other emergency personnel play in protecting vulnerable members of the community during natural disasters.

The details

Firefighters responded to a report of the dog stuck in the storm drain near the intersection of Sterling Avenue and Lynwood Drive in the Belvedere neighborhood of San Bernardino. They arrived to find the pup trapped behind a drainage gate as water rushed through the area. The crews worked together to free the dog, which was then turned over to the San Bernardino City Department of Animal Services.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

San Bernardino County Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the emergency call and led the rescue efforts.

San Bernardino County Public Works

The county agency that assisted the fire department in the rescue operation.

San Bernardino City Department of Animal Services

The local animal welfare agency that took custody of the rescued dog.

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The takeaway

This dramatic rescue highlights the important role first responders play in protecting vulnerable members of the community, both human and animal, during extreme weather events. It serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by flooding and the need for vigilance and quick action to save lives.