On a Monday evening in Rovaniemi, a three-year-old mare named Vappu ventured approximately four kilometers from her home stable, ending up in a perilous situation when the ice of the Kemijoki river broke under her weight. The local fire department reported that during her evening walk, Vappu managed to wander far away and unfortunately fell into the icy waters, prompting a swift response from animal caretakers who searched for her. They discovered her shivering in a hole in the ice around 10:55 PM and called for help.

The rescue operation involved personnel from the Rovaniemi fire department and a volunteer fire brigade from Tervola, who worked together to retrieve Vappu from her dangerous predicament. The firefighters described the situation as challenging due to the icy conditions and the distance that Vappu had traveled, but thanks to their exceptional teamwork, she was successfully brought back to dry land around midnight. A fire chief involved in the operation shared on the Lapland rescue service's Facebook page that despite the cold water and lengthy journey, Vappu demonstrated great spirit during the rescue.

This incident highlights the potential risks associated with animals wandering off and the quick action taken by local authorities and volunteers in ensuring their safety. It serves as a reminder of the dedication and collaborative effort of emergency services in rural areas, especially in challenging weather conditions that can pose risks both to animals and rescuers alike.