Firefighters Save Horse Trapped in Pond

Marion County Fire District No. 1 would like to remind the public that there are inherent dangers when working alongside large animals in such circumstances.

Special thanks to Patrick J. Wineman, Incident Commander Battalion Chief/Paramedic. Marion County Fire District No. 1

(SALEM) - This morning Marion County Fire District #1 responded to 6096 Juniper Ct for a public assist. First arriving units found a horse approximately 100 feet out in a semi-flooded field with water depth approximately 4 feet. The horse named "Ace" had its legs entangled in a barbed wire fence and he was unable to move or free himself. A bystander was attempting to free the horse without success and had to retreat from the water. An ambulance was also called and that bystander was treated and released on scene by paramedics for possible hypothermia.

Personnel and apparatus that responded to this incident included 2 engine companies, one medic, one grass unit, two chief officers, and the Salem Fire Department Water Rescue Team. After approximately 1 hour from the time units were first dispatched, the horse was successfully freed from the entanglement. Veterinarians responded to the scene prior to the horse being removed from the water and both Dr. Hanifen of Salem-Polk Vet Clinic, and Dr. Mike Stewart of Silver Creek Veterinarian, treated the horse who appeared to have minor injuries. Ace is a 9-year-old quarter horse paint, and is owned by Robert Alexander Jr. He stated that he was "very thankful for the quick response and actions of the fire department to help his horse."

While assisting the horse was the objective, our priority on any incident such as this, is responder and public life safety. "This incident was able to come to a successful resolution because of our planning and diligent attention to the safety of our responders and the public", said Incident Commander MCFD#1 Battalion Chief Patrick Wineman. "We are fortunate that we had the support of Salem Fire Department's water rescue team, our own well trained MCFD1 firefighters and a clear plan of operational safety and awareness".

MCFD#1 would like to remind the public that there are inherent dangers when working alongside large animals in such circumstances. The public is encouraged to use 911 to ask for help and to let trained personnel assist in such an emergency. Entering the water in these temperatures, with these hazards, is potentially life threatening and should be left to professional responders.

Please check us out on facebook for more info on this, and other MCFD1 events, at https://www.facebook.com/MarionCountyFireDistrict1