An elderly black Labrador named Jackson made an unexpected and perilous descent into an 18-foot water-filled well in Middlezoy on the Somerset Levels. The incident occurred around 10:35 a.m. on Sunday, July 20, setting off a swift and expertly coordinated rescue operation.
Fire crews from Taunton and Bridgwater Fire Stations’ white watch, with additional support from Street Fire Station, responded immediately to the emergency call. Upon arrival, rescuers found Jackson exhausted and struggling to stay afloat at the bottom of the deep, partly filled well.
Demonstrating remarkable courage and skill, one firefighter volunteered to enter the confined space to reach the distressed dog. The rescue team employed a range of specialized equipment, including a mini ejector pump to manage water levels, a gas monitor to ensure air safety, a battery-operated fan for ventilation, and rope rescue gear for secure extraction.
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Thanks to the meticulous efforts of the crew, Jackson was safely lifted from the well and quickly reunited with his grateful owners, who have cared for him since he was just seven weeks old. The family expressed profound gratitude to everyone involved in the life-saving mission.
A fire service spokesperson commended the teamwork, emphasizing the critical use of safety and rescue equipment that made the successful operation possible.