A raccoon had to be saved from a storm drain using equipment usually used for rescuing people trapped in cars.
Firefighters in Rostraver Township, Pennsylvania, deployed a ‘jaws of life’ powerful hydraulic tool after other methods failed to help the critter.
Before responders arrived, a local resident tried to free the raccoon using water and dish soap.
“They tried a few of those things, but nothing ultimately worked,” Rostraver Township Police Chief Scott Sokol told The Mon Valley Independent.
After removing the storm grate with the raccoon still trapped inside, the fire crew was able to cut away just enough metal to free the animal.
The raccoon was pictured scurrying back to nearby trees after its ordeal.
Rostraver Township Fire Department said they were able to “free the animal back to its natural habitat.”
Facebook users commented on the rescue.
Ashley Furlong posted: “Poor baby. Thank you for caring enough and taking the time to free that poor guy safely!”
Kena Cowell added, “One for the record books. Whoever thought that the jaws of life were meant only for humans? Nice work.”
