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Seven horses rescued by County of Grande Prairie firefighters

Apr 18, 2017 | 5:48 AM

COUNTY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE — Firefighters saved seven horses that fell through the ice Easter Sunday.

It happened on a pond near Highway 43 and Range Road 114. The county says a total of ten horses fell through the ice. The other three died, one from injuries and two others from exhaustion.

County of Grande Prairie fire chief Trevor Grant says this serves as a reminder to everyone to be careful this time of year.

“Ice conditions can change from morning to afternoon, not only with people but with pets and animals as well, just being aware of that situation,” he said.

Firefighters from LaGlace used specialized training in large animal rescue to help in the operation.

“We do have firefighters from the Clairmont, Dunes and Bezanson stations, as well as Teepee Creek, that have undertaken some of the training, but LaGlace has focused on it.  In their area, they did acquire some of the tools and equipment required for this type of specialized rescue,” Grant explained. Firefighters from Hythe, the Dunes, Clairmont and Beaverlodge Fire Departments, along with Technical Search and Rescue, all responded to the call.

Grant said while it is unfortunate that three of the horses could not be saved, he added saving seven is “a huge feat.”