
Rockford Firefighters Rescue Man Clinging to Ice in Rock River
A resident walking behind the Rockford Public Library on Wyman Street made a life-saving discovery when they noticed a bag on the sidewalk and heard yelling from the river.
Citizen’s Quick Thinking Leads to Water Rescue
According to a Rockford Fire Department press release, when the Good Samaritan got closer they spotted a man in the Rock River clinging to ice approximately 200 feet from shore, and they sprung into action.
They immediately called 911, prompting a swift emergency response.
Rockford Fire Department Executes Ice Rescue
Rockford Fire Department crews arrived on the scene and made voice contact with the victim while preparing for a water rescue.
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According to the report, due to the man’s distance from shore, initial attempts to throw a rescue rope and life ring were unsuccessful.
Firefighters then got into their water rescue suits and harnesses before carefully making their way onto the ice while tethered to shore for safety.
Crews then carried a specialized buoyancy ring to assist the victim and then launched an inflatable rescue boat, according to the press release.
Firefighters successfully pulled the hypothermic but responsive victim from the icy water and transported him to shore, where an ambulance was waiting to transport him to a hospital for evaluation.
Authorities Investigate as Officials Warn of River Dangers
Rockford Police are investigating the circumstances that led to the man’s fall into the river. According to the report, officials estimate he had been in the water for approximately 30 minutes before his rescue.

This incident highlights the dangers of the Rock River, particularly in winter. Ice can be deceptively thin, and frigid water temperatures pose a severe risk of hypothermia or drowning.
Authorities are urging residents to be extremely cautious around the river and local lakes during the winter months, and if you ever see anyone in distress, call 911.
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