Man Leaps Into Rising Floodwaters To Save Drowning Dog

With a forecast of heavy rain and flooding on the way in late October, two city officials went to the river to scope out troubled spots. Then, they noticed splashing in the water.

Somebody was drowning in the river.

Immediately, they called Savannah, Georgia's Fire Marine Unit "Courageous." Mark Keller, the public information officer, told The Dodo the unit "lived up to the vessel's name today."

Upon the rescue team's arrival, "the Captain could see that what they initially thought was a person was actually [a] family's dog," Keller explained.

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Advanced Firefighter Steven Williams fixed himself to a swimmer's line and plunged into the cold, strong current to rescue the dog, named Bo.

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

With Bo secure in his arms, Williams returned to the Courageous and climbed aboard the boat.

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Bo was visiting Savannah with his family from New Jersey when he either excitedly jumped in the water or accidentally fell in, according to Keller's report.

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Following the rescue, Bo and his family were reunited, thanks to the skill and bravery of the rescue team on Savannah's Courageous.

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Savannah Fire & Emergency Services