Firefighters sent to rescue cows stuck in slurry pit

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was sent to a farm in Firle where a number of cows had become trapped in a large slurry pit.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Jan 2016, 16:20 BST
Updated 27th Jan 2016, 16:24 BST

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Fire and Rescue

One crew were sent from Lewes, along with the specialist animal rescue team from Crowborough at 8.22am on Monday morning (January 25) to a farm along the A27.

It is thought that at least one cow may still be unaccounted for as others self-rescued before the fire service arrived.

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However, one cow was rescued using the service’s inflatable paths that provided safe access and a crane to drag and lift the animal to safety.

Group commander Matt Elder said: “It is not uncommon for livestock to get stuck in slurry pits, and once they have entered, it is extremely difficult for them to get out or indeed for anyone to rescue them.

“Farmers should maintain a high level of vigilance in ensuring accidental access is prevented into slurry lagoons as they are highly dangerous and present an almost unique range of hazards.

“ESFRS does however have the right vehicles, equipment and team training to rescue them. The Mercedes Unimog and Land Rover, with a team of four firefighters from Crowborough, form the Large Animal Rescue Team and they attend between 80 and 100 calls across the South East every year.

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“On this occasion, firefighters ensured they kept themselves safe from any possible contamination by wearingdry suits, used in water rescue, and water safety equipment that also enables easy decontamination at the scene.”

Crews remained at the incident until 10.30am and left the situation with the farmer.

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Related topics:CrowboroughA27