Norwalk Fire Department Nabs PETA Award for Rescuing Swan Stuck in Frozen River

For Immediate Release:
February 6, 2026

Contact:
Sara Groves 202-483-7382

A Compassionate Fire Department Award is on its way from PETA to the Norwalk Fire Department in recognition of their quick actions and determination in rescuing a swan whose feet were frozen solid into the ice on the Norwalk River below the Wall Street Bridge on February 3.

According to reports, firefighters put on cold-water rescue suits and waded into the river to reach the swan, painstakingly chipping away at the ice to safely free the bird. The swan was then gently brought to shore using ropes and a ladder and transported to an emergency veterinary center, where veterinarians used warm water to slowly remove the remaining ice blocks. The swan has since fully recovered and is being released back into their natural habitat.

“This swan was facing an agonizingly painful and slow death, but is now safe thanks to the heroic actions and resourcefulness of the Norwalk Fire Department,” says PETA Founder Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA encourages everyone to follow these rescuers’ example by never hesitating to help an animal in danger.”

PETA is sending a framed certificate to the Norwalk Fire Department, along with delicious vegan chocolates.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.