SASKATOON — A Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) officer crawled into a storm drain Friday night to keep a young man’s head above water after heavy rain left him trapped near the river.
Saskatoon police and fire crews were called to a dog park on the east side in the 3700 block of Kinnear Avenue at about 8 p.m. after the young man became trapped in a storm drain.
“A patrol officer from A-Platoon demonstrated incredible bravery by assisting in what could have been a life-threatening situation for a young man,” said SPS.
According to Saskatoon Police Service, the first responding officer found a significant amount of storm water had flooded the drain and pinned the young man against a gate.
With the Saskatoon Fire Department on its way, the officer crawled into the storm drain and reached through the bars to keep the young man’s head above water.
The officer remained there while firefighters arrived and a rescue was coordinated.
After nearly two hours of work by police and fire crews, the young man was brought to safety. He received medical treatment before being taken to hospital by paramedics.
SPS described the officer’s actions as an example of the challenges police face while responding to uncertain and potentially life-threatening situations.
“Policing forces our officers to enter uncertain situations, make critical decisions and act when someone needs help most,” said the service in a social media post. “It is challenging, meaningful work – and an opportunity to truly be the difference.”
