Firefighters Rescue Swan Stuck in Frozen Connecticut River

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Firefighters in Norwalk, Connecticut came to the rescue of a swan that was stuck in the frozen Norwalk River this week. The fire department crews donned cold-water rescue suits and used ropes to carefully move out onto the ice and free the swan, whose feet had become frozen in place. It took about 30 minutes to safely bring the swan to shore, and the bird was then taken to a veterinarian center where it is expected to make a full recovery.

Why it matters

Animal rescues during extreme winter weather conditions require specialized training and equipment to ensure the safety of both the rescuers and the animal. This incident highlights the important role that local fire departments play in responding to these types of emergencies and keeping the community's wildlife safe.

The details

Norwalk Fire Department crews donned cold-water rescue suits and used ropes to carefully move out onto the frozen Norwalk River on Tuesday. They soon discovered the swan's feet were frozen into the ice, and it took them about 30 minutes to free the bird and bring it to shore without incident. The swan appeared grateful for the rescue, and firefighters noted the bird was "just happy to be out of the ice." The swan was then taken to a veterinarian center, which reports it is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery.

• On Tuesday, Norwalk Fire Department crews rescued the swan from the frozen Norwalk River.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Once the swan regains its strength at the veterinarian center, it will be properly released back into the wild.