NI Water are used to working around reservoirs and reminding walkers and joggers of their dangers. However, last week staff were alerted to an unusual rescue at Leathemstown Reservoir, Lisburn after a cow ‘mooved’ into the disused reservoir that had been drained.
Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) rescued the animal and she was reunited with her owner, a local farmer.
Maynard Cousley, Water Supply Senior Manager, commented: “This is a timely reminder to everyone that reservoirs can be dangerous places, and especially when there is little or no water in them; even our local livestock can be caught out.,”
A spokesperson for NIFRS said: “Following a spell of hot weather and no rain for a number of weeks, the reservoir had become sticky.
“The animal was probably thirsty and hoping to get a drink but became trapped in the mud very quickly as the temperatures increased.”
In the past, NI Water staff at other sites have helped an injured buzzard, a seal, a small dolphin, a family of ducks, swans and abandoned kittens.
