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SRP zanjeros rescue trapped dog
25
September
2019
|
09:00 AM
America/Denver

SRP Water Employees Rescue Dog Trapped in Canal Grate

WHAT: 
SRP's 131-mile system of canals are designed to efficiently deliver water to a large portion of the Valley. Every day, employees from Salt River Project’s water delivery team tend to and care for the water supply.

At 1 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21, SRP zanjero Marcus Arnold was performing routine duties while on his route in Chandler. He was driving along open-ditch laterals as he prepared to distribute water later that morning. When Marcus reached one of the SRP grates, which are installed to prevent debris and people from entering as the ditch transitions into pipe, he noticed a dog sitting alone on the bank. As he rolled down his window to check on the animal, Marcus then heard whimpers from another dog trapped inside the grate.

Marcus quickly called a co-worker to help rescue the trapped animal. Once zanjero Alex Gutierrez arrived, Marcus put his construction and maintenance background to use and unbolted a small portion of the grate while Alex kept an eye on the other stray dog. Once the metal grate was no longer attached to the wall, Marcus made a small lasso and pulled the frightened dog up five feet to safety.

Marcus and Alex cared for the dogs by giving them food and water, but given that it was still the middle of the night, there wasn’t much more they could do and the stray friends left safely together.

SRP zanjeros say they routinely come across animals as they deliver water throughout the Valley. They remind owners to always keep an eye on their pets around the canal and irrigation facilities.

DETAILS: SRP employees involved will be available for interviews upon request

SAFETY:
SRP reminds those who walk, jog or bike along the canals to be safe. Canals can be very dangerous.
Here are some safety reminders:

  • Do not swim in canals.
  • Keep a safe distance from the edges.
  • Canal sides are extremely slick, making it difficult to get out.
  • Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing and tubing are not allowed.
  • Make sure to teach children about canal safety.
  • Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the canal banks (authorization from SRP is required).
  • Stay away from automated equipment at water delivery gates.
  • Never jump in to rescue pets or objects such as toys. Call 911 for help.
  • Secure permission from SRP before using canal banks for any kind of event. Call (602) 236-3126 for permit information.

 

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About SRP

SRP is a community-based, not-for-profit public power utility and the largest provider of electricity in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, serving more than 1 million customers. SRP also is the metropolitan area’s largest supplier of water, delivering about 800,000 acre-feet annually to municipal, urban and agricultural water users.