Harlem-Roscoe Fire crew rescues deer from icy river in Riverside Park
All in a day’s work: the fire department named the rescued deer "Betty White."
The Harlem Roscoe Fire rescue crew saved a young deer that had fallen through the ice at Riverside Park on Saturday morning, Jan.8. The crew rescued the frightened animal and took her to Hoo Haven, an animal rescue and rehabilitation facility in Durand. She is reportedly doing well. Photo by HRFD Battalion Chief Kevin T. Brigg
The early morning shift crew at Harlem Roscoe Fire answered a rather unusual call for assistance on Saturday morning, Jan. 8. The caller reported seeing a young female deer stuck in the ice-crusted river near Riverside Park in Roscoe.
The team donned their Mustang ice-rescue suits and headed for Riverside Park. There they saw the young deer, coated with ice and struggling to stay above the water.
The HRFD yellow banana boat was launched into the ice-filled water. Crew members approached the frightened deer, and were able to bring her on board the boat.
Once back on shore, she was given warm liquids and wrapped in blankets. She was taken to Hoo Haven, an animal rescue and rehabilitation center in Durand, IL, where she was reportedly doing well. Hoo Haven would appreciate donations, such as hay to feed her.
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Members of the rescue team decided to call the little deer “Betty White,” in honor of the 99-year-old actress and dedicated animal lover who passed away on Dec. 31, 2021.
