New Jersey Firefighters Rescue Deer Trapped in Shrewsbury River
OCEANPORT, N.J. — Firefighters and emergency responders from several departments collaborated to rescue a deer that had fallen through the melting ice of the Shrewsbury River on Tuesday. The incident unfolded when the animal wandered onto the precarious ice and broke through, prompting a swift response from local first responders.
The Oceanport Fire Department, along with the Sea Bright Fire Department, Little Silver Fire Department, Oceanport Police Department, and the Oceanport First Aid Squad, mobilized quickly to the scene. Using an inflatable raft and a catch pole, rescuers carefully retrieved the wet and distressed deer from the cold water and brought it safely back to shore.
Photos shared by the Oceanport Fire Department captured the tense moments of the rescue, highlighting the teamwork and dedication of the responders. The department praised the operation as a “great example of interagency cooperation and the dedication of our local first responders — always ready to help, no matter the situation.”
Incidents involving wildlife trapped on ice are not uncommon in the region during seasonal thawing periods. Similar rescues have been documented by agencies such as the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, which often coordinates with local emergency services to protect both animals and public safety.
Rescuers’ efforts underscore the importance of maintaining readiness for unusual emergencies, especially as fluctuating winter temperatures create hazardous conditions on bodies of water. The U.S. Fire Administration emphasizes the value of interagency collaboration in such scenarios, which can significantly improve outcomes for both humans and animals.
As the region transitions from winter to spring, residents are reminded to exercise caution near frozen rivers and lakes. The State of New Jersey provides resources and safety guidelines to help prevent similar incidents, encouraging the public to report any wildlife or individuals in distress near waterways.
This successful rescue adds to a growing list of wildlife emergencies handled by first responders in the Northeast, showcasing their commitment to community safety and animal welfare under challenging conditions.
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