Firefighters Bravely Rescue Trapped Doe from Frozen Franklin Lakes Pond

Stubborn Doe “Refuses Medical Attention” After Dramatic Bergen County Ice Rescue

photos courtesy of the Franklin Lakes Fire Department

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Franklin Lakes NJ, it was a cold, “doe-eyed” evening in Bergen County that took a turn for the dramatic. On February 3, 2026, a local resident’s quiet evening was interrupted when they spotted a deer that had fallen through the ice and become hopelessly trapped in a frozen pond.

What followed was a coordinated “ice rescue” that the Franklin Lakes Fire Department and Oakland Volunteer Fire Department won’t soon forget.

The “Mutual Aid” Mission

Dispatched at 5:30 PM, Franklin Lakes firefighters quickly realized they needed specialized backup. They called in mutual aid from the Oakland Fire Department and the Wyckoff FD, along with a Basic Life Support unit from the Franklin Lakes Ambulance Corps.

Crews worked in freezing temperatures to carefully extract the doe from the icy water, using specialized gear to ensure both the animal and the rescuers stayed safe.

“Refused Medical Attention”

While the rescue was serious, the aftermath provided a bit of levity for the first responders. Once the doe was safely back on solid ground, she didn’t stick around to say thank you or wait for a check-up.

“Members safely removed the deer from the water and she fled the scene and refused medical attention,” a Franklin Lakes Fire Department representative joked on social media.

The Oakland Fire Department confirmed the doe’s clean bill of health: “The deer took off running unharmed into the woods once on land.” ### Winter Safety Reminder for Bergen County As freezing temperatures continue to impact North Jersey, officials remind residents to keep a close eye on pets and wildlife near private ponds. If you see an animal (or person) trapped on the ice, never attempt a rescue yourself. Contact your local fire department immediately, as they have the training and “cold water suits” necessary to handle the situation safely.

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Tags: #BergenCounty #FranklinLakes #OaklandNJ #Firefighters #AnimalRescue #WildlifeSafety #HeroicActs #DeerRescue