Key Takeaways
- A yellow Labrador named Phoenix fell through a thin layer of ice covering a pond in Rhode Island on New Year’s Day
- Firefighters from the Misquamicut and Watch Hill fire departments conducted a successful water rescue using ice rescue suits
- The dog was rescued and declared free of injuries, while the firefighters were evaluated for possible hypothermia but did not require treatment
- The incident highlights the importance of treating all ice as potentially dangerous, particularly over bodies of water
- The fire department warns that no ice is ever safe and that these situations are extremely dangerous, requiring extensive training for cold water and ice rescues
Introduction to the Incident
A dramatic rescue took place on New Year’s Day in Westerly, Rhode Island, when a yellow Labrador named Phoenix wandered onto a thin layer of ice covering a pond and fell through the center. The incident occurred while Phoenix was out for a walk with his owner, and it required the prompt response of firefighters from the Misquamicut Fire Department. Volunteer firefighters and other emergency officials were dispatched to the scene early Thursday morning, and they quickly assessed the situation to determine the best course of action.
The Rescue Efforts
Once on the scene, firefighters saw Phoenix struggling and unable to move to shore in the slushy, icy water. Members from both the Misquamicut and Watch Hill fire departments donned ice rescue suits, which help protect the body from frigid temperatures, to enter the pond and successfully rescue Phoenix. The ice rescue suits are a crucial piece of equipment in situations like this, as they allow firefighters to enter the icy water without putting themselves at risk of hypothermia. The National Weather Service reported that the temperature was around 26 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of the rescue, with the wind chill dropping the temperature to 14 degrees. Despite the challenging conditions, the firefighters were able to rescue Phoenix and bring him to safety.
The Aftermath of the Rescue
After the rescue, Phoenix was declared free of injuries, but he was likely shaken by the experience. Steve Howard, deputy chief of the Misquamicut Fire Department, checked in with Phoenix’s owner later that day to ensure that the dog was doing well. According to Howard, Phoenix "got a little bit of extra food" and "took a little nap," which suggests that he was able to recover from the ordeal. The firefighters who participated in the rescue were also evaluated for possible hypothermia, but fortunately, they did not require treatment. The incident was described as "a successful first call of 2026" by the fire department, which is a testament to the bravery and professionalism of the firefighters involved.
The Importance of Ice Safety
The incident serves as a reminder to treat all ice as potentially dangerous, particularly over bodies of water. The fire department warned that "no ice is ever safe" and that these situations are extremely dangerous, requiring extensive training for cold water and ice rescues. This is a crucial message, especially during the winter months when ice can form on ponds, lakes, and rivers. It is essential for people to exercise caution when approaching icy surfaces, as the consequences of falling through the ice can be severe. The fire department’s warning is a timely reminder to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents like this in the future.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the rescue of Phoenix from the icy pond in Rhode Island is a remarkable story of bravery and quick thinking. The firefighters from the Misquamicut and Watch Hill fire departments demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism in responding to the emergency, and their actions likely saved Phoenix’s life. The incident also highlights the importance of ice safety and the need for people to exercise caution when approaching icy surfaces. As the fire department noted, no ice is ever safe, and it is crucial to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents like this in the future. By sharing this story, we hope to raise awareness about the dangers of ice and the importance of being prepared for emergencies like this.