Off-duty firefighter saves two girls on Bug River

14 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

An off-duty firefighter carried out a Bug River rescue, saving two girls near Wyszków. Read what happened and safety tips for expats.

At 18:50 today, witnesses reported that two girls were drowning in the Bug River near Wyszków. An off-duty firefighter who had been fishing nearby jumped into action and carried out a dramatic Bug River rescue that helped save both children.

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Bug River rescue: what happened

Emergency services received a call at 18:50. Consequently, fire crews moved immediately to the site. One girl already stood on the riverbank when firefighters arrived. However, the second girl clung to a road bridge pillar. The team secured the scene. Moreover, they provided qualified first aid to the girl brought ashore. In addition, a firefighter donned a dry suit and entered the water. He approached the frightened and exhausted child on the pillar. Therefore, he secured her and brought her to safety on the bank. Both girls then went to the arriving medical team. The Zespół Ratownictwa Medycznego provided further examination. Moreover, the report states both children received appropriate care.

A key detail matters to the local community. A resident of Wyszków performed the first rescue. He serves with the Komenda Powiatowa Państwowej Straży Pożarnej in Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki. Consequently, he heard calls for help while fishing off duty. He instructed bystanders to run to the nearby fire station and alert the control room. Then, he entered the water and swam to the stranded child. Moreover, he removed the child from the current and carried her to shore. The local fire command publicly commended his brave action. In addition, neighbours praised his calm and quick decisions.

Why this incident matters

Rivers can hide strong currents and sudden drop-offs. Therefore, even skilled swimmers can get into trouble. In addition, the Bug runs long stretches without lifeguards. The river also slices through rural areas and popular recreation spots. However, many swimmers assume it remains safe near bridges. Consequently, a short moment of inattention can turn fatal. Furthermore, emergency services often depend on fast eyewitness reports. Therefore, knowing how to describe a location helps rescuers. For example, name the nearest bridge or road. Also, carry a phone and clear directions.

Practical advice for expats

Always use designated and lifeguarded bathing sites. Moreover, watch children closely near water. If you witness an incident call 112 immediately. In addition, say “Pomocy” or “Help” and give the exact location. Also, tell the dispatcher the nearest address or bridge name. Emergency medical teams will treat life threats regardless of insurance. However, you may receive a bill later. The public health insurer is NFZ (National Health Fund). In addition, ZUS is the social insurance agency. Your PESEL is the national ID number used for records. Moreover, a foreigner without NFZ coverage might face charges for ambulance transport. Also, police or firefighters may issue a mandat (fine) for unsafe behaviour. Finally, consider local rescue services like OSP volunteer brigades. They often cooperate with the PSP in rural areas.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: In Poland call 112 for all emergencies. The fire service is the Państwowa Straż Pożarna (PSP). Emergency medical teams are Zespół Ratownictwa Medycznego. Moreover, NFZ covers urgent treatment for residents, but non-residents may face charges. Therefore, carry identification and your insurer details. In addition, learn a few Polish phrases like “Pomocy” (Help). Keep children out of unguarded parts of rivers.

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