Video shows rescue of woman, 2 dogs from New Jersey creek -- hours after crews finished water rescue training

First responders in Blackwood, New Jersey, were captured on body camera footage as they rushed to save a woman and her two dogs from the icy depths of Timber Creek on Sunday afternoon. The dramatic video showcases Chews Landing firefighters using a rope to pull the woman, who was submerged approximately 35 feet from shore, out of the freezing water. Fire Chief Mike Millisky noted that she was nearly unconscious during the rescue and expressed relief that she survived, though the duration of her time in the water remains unknown.

The incident took place near a wooded trail adjacent to Timber Creek Dog Park, where it is believed the woman slipped onto the partially frozen pond while attempting to rescue her pets. A passerby spotted her in distress and promptly called 911, prompting an immediate response from multiple local agencies.

A coordinated rescue effort involving firefighters from various municipalities, including Chews Landing and Blackwood, as well as several emergency service units, was initiated. Remarkably, the entire operation was completed in about seven minutes, made possible by the recent ice water rescue training that the Chews Landing firefighters had just finished hours prior.

The woman was transported to a hospital in critical condition but is currently recovering, as confirmed by her sister. Additionally, both dogs involved in the incident were rescued and are reported to be healthy.

In light of this alarming incident, Gloucester Township Police are urging the public to avoid frozen waterways and to keep pets leashed near ponds and lakes to prevent similar emergencies from occurring in the future.