An elderly man is lucky to be alive after falling into a well that was
filled with cold water and snakes, according to firefighters in Maine.
Around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, the Tremont Fire and EMS were called to a
property on a report of a 71-year-old man who had fallen into a well.
He was inspecting the water level with a piece of wood, but lost it down the hole.
While attempting to retrieve the wood, he slipped into the 18 inch
opening and became trapped inside the 8 feet deep concrete chamber.
He screamed for about 30 minutes, until his wife heard his calls for help.
Neighbors were quick to assist emergency responders as they lowered him a
life jacket and directed the emergency crew to the man’s location.
A 200 pound outer concrete cover was removed, allowing access to the
second 18 inch entry hole below. It was quickly determined that man was
having difficulty staying above the water.
Tremont Fire Captain Heath Higgins lowered himself into the well to keep
the man’s head above the water. Without hesitation, Deputy Sheriff
McFarland and Steve Ward pulled the man out as Captain Higgins pushed
from below.
A very wet but thankful and smiling man emerged from the dark chamber.
As Captain Higgins entered the well, he quickly discovered that he and
the victim were not alone.
There were numerous live snakes in the water.
The man was taken to the hospital, where he treated for minor injuries and released.