Warning over missing manhole covers after dog rescue
Firefighters are warning of the dangers of missing manhole covers at a former RAF base in Cambridgeshire after a dog had to be rescued from a 10 foot hole.
Two crews were called to reports of a trapped dog on the former RAF Upwood between Huntingdon and Peterborough.
A 12-month-old German Shepherd dog called Ollie fell down the hole after chasing a ball.
Group Commander Callum Faint said: "RAF Upwood is an area of concern for the emergency services as there are numerous hazards on the site.
"A number of manhole covers have been removed from the base, leaving gaping holes for unsuspecting animals - or even humans - to fall in to. We know it is a popular place for dog walkers so we would urge the public to be aware of the hazards and consider exercising dogs in other locations where there is less risk of both owner and animal getting injured."
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "This owner did the right thing by contacting the fire service and not attempting a rescue themselves, which could have resulted in them getting injured The owner was very helpful throughout the rescue process in remaining calm and keeping the dog relaxed."
The problem some ruthless people do not consider the dangers and go round collecting manhole covers for the iron ore value. It is up to iron merchants to refuse to accept these items unless legally come by. Glad the dog was ok.