Quick-Thinking Firefighters Rescue Child in the Rondout Creek

Once again, local first responders have gone above and beyond in the Hudson Valley, this time to save a vulnerable child stranded in dangerous waters.

Intense storms posed several threats to local residents last week. High winds brought down trees and power lines, and heavy rainfall meant that streams, creeks, and rivers were flowing with an increased intensity. This spelled danger for one young adult with autism in Rosendale, NY.

The Rosendale Trestle crosses the Rondout Creek in Rosendale, NY. The creek was the scene of a recent water rescue (Google)

Water Rescue in Rosendale, NY

"On August 10, 2024 at 2:42 pm, the Rosendale Fire Department was dispatched to Main Street for a report of a child in the Rondout Creek", began a recent press release from the Rosendale Fire Department (RFD). Luckily, two firefighters were able to quickly leap into action.

While the Rondout Creek may look unassuming, factors like heavy rainfall can quickly make the water dangerous (Google)

Rosendale Fire Department Rescues Child with Autism from Water

Firefighters Adam Watson and Tom Hausmann were heading to the fire station in response to the emergency call when they noticed the 16-year-old "floating" down the swift current of the Rondout, said the RFD. Without waiting for backup to arrive, the men immediately began rescue efforts.

View of the Rondout Creek from Lower James Street (Google)

Details on Rondout Creek Water Rescue in Rosendale, NY

"Firefighters Watson and Hausmann, with complete disregard for their own safety, entered the swiftly moving water and removed the child", the press release continued. The 16-year-old, who has autism, as well as both responding firefighters, emerged from the water unharmed.

Water Safety for People with Autism

Autism support and education organization Autism Speaks shares that people with autism seem to be particularly drawn to bodies of water, making water safety a top concern for parents or guardians of people with autism. Check out some more New York rescues below.

Firefighter Rescue Man Trapped in New York Mine

Brewster Fire Department

Gallery Credit: CJ

Horse In A New York Backyard Pool?! See The Dramatic Rescue Photos

God Bless our amazing First Responders. They have to see and react to unique situations every day to save not just human lives, but also those of our four-legged friends. This past weekend a horse-faced a life or death situation after getting caught in the cover in someone's backyard pool in Bohemia, New York. Thankfully, the Bohemia Fire Department came to the rescue.

Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff