FAIRFIELD, CT -- At 10:41 AM Monday, Dec. 19th, the Fairfield Emergency Communications Center (ECC) received a request for assistance from the resident at 130 Robert Lane who reported that his dog was stuck on the ice. Delilah, a 19-yr-old shepherd mix, had wandered onto the ice and was unable to get back to shore. The owner tried to reach the dog with a pole but was unsuccessful. He resisted the urge to go out onto the ice and called 911 for help. Fairfield Fire Engine 1, Ladder 2, and C3 responded. Under the direction of Lt. Phil Higgins, FF. Rob Petrie donned a cold water rescue suit and prepared for the rescue. FF. Nick Gentile manned a safety rope and the crew from Ladder 2 provided back up.
The thin ice broke as soon as FF Petrie stepped onto the pond. The shallow water at the edge of the pond dropped off quickly to almost 10 feet in depth where the dog was stranded. With the help of a rescue stick provided by Animal Control Officer Joe Felner, Delilah was quickly and safely rescued. Although cold and wet, she was unharmed by her misadventure.
ATTACHED PHOTOS: Fairfield Fire Department at work – as seen in photos – FF. Rob Petrie – in yellow rescue suit, FF. Nick Gentile – with hat and life jacket, Animal Control Officer – Joe Felner in green uniform. Dog – Delilah.