Most Westport Fire Department press releases describe house blazes, motor vehicle extrications and hazardous waste clean-ups.
This one’s different.
And one more reason why we love our firefighters:
Earlier this evening, Westport Fire Department dispatchers received numerous calls for an animal rescue on I-95. A family of ducks had been observed trying to navigate I-95 at rush hour, resulting in 9 ducklings falling into a storm drain.
Rescue 3 and the shift commander responded to I-95 North to provide assistance, meeting up with state police troopers just prior to exit 17. A Department of Transportation Safety Patrol vehicle provided critical barrier protection for those working on the highway.
Removing the grate for the rescue.
Firefighters used a variety of hand tools, hydraulic rescue tools and metering equipment to gain access to the storm drain. Firefighter Andrew Ponticiello entered the storm drain via a ladder and patiently rescued all 9 of the ducklings, despite their reluctance to exit. This was his second animal rescue from a storm drain in as many days.
Firefighter Andrew Ponticiello, with his 9 ducklings.
As a reminder, if you are concerned about the welfare of any animal — particularly when the animals are on a highway or main road — call 911 and ask for assistance. The roads and highways are dangerous places to be. We want to make sure everyone goes home safely.
How great is that 🦆
Carol L Barrett
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Maybe the ducklings can be honorary guests at the duck race.
The ducks got all the way to Compo Road South. I saw the firefighters pulling sewer grates – and ducklings! Great work.
Thank you Westport Fire Department for coming to the rescue for these little ones, and thank you Wildlife in Crisis for taking them in. Peter Reid, Director of Wildlife in Crisis, reports they are resting in an incubator right now after their close call.
What a wonderful story, though I wonder what happened to mama and papa. Thank you WFD for caring about all things, big, and small (x9)!
Thank you for the rescue and their subsequent care.
Awww! Way to go guys!
ONE OF OUR FINEST FOR SUREWE ALL THANK YOU!
Heartwarming. Thank you!
Thanks so much for this story! A great way to start my day today!
Was officer Clancey involved?