Heroic Five-Hour Rescue Saves Kitten Trapped in Car Engine
In a nail-biting late-night rescue on October 21, a tiny feral kitten was saved after being trapped for five hours inside a car engine on Frances Street, Woolwich. The desperate cries of the kitten sparked an urgent rescue mission that had everyone on edge.
Volunteers and Firefighters Join Forces in Dramatic Save
Concerned locals called the Greenwich Wildlife Network after hearing the kitten’s frantic meows from inside the vehicle. Volunteers tried everything to coax the frightened feline out, but the rescue hit a snag — similar to a tricky rabbit rescue they’d tackled before.
With no luck, the volunteers called in the London Fire Brigade. Firefighters arrived swiftly and found the kitten wedged deep in the engine bay. They spent five painstaking hours dismantling car parts to free the tiny trapped survivor.
“As always, London Fire Brigade were amazing – the firefighters arrived in minutes and were kind and attentive,” said Rae Gellel, Greenwich Wildlife Network founder.
Kitten Named Polo Begins Road to Recovery
After hurdles getting owner permission and police help to lift the car, the rescue team finally extracted the kitten, named Polo by firefighter Elliot Lister. She’s believed to be just a newborn stray seeking warmth in the engine.
Polo arrived flea-ridden and wary of humans. Volunteers are now helping her shed fear and build trust. “Feral cats, unlike regular strays, have never had contact with humans and are much more fearful,” Rae explained.
Firefighter Elliot Lister recalled, “The kitten was about the size of an orange. Too young to escape on her own, without help she wouldn’t have made it.”
Fire Brigade Issues Winter Warning for Drivers
With winter on the way, the London Fire Brigade urges drivers to check under their bonnets for animals seeking warmth before starting their engines. They advise calling the RSPCA first but promise to respond when specialised gear is needed for rescues.
This heartwarming rescue highlights how teamwork and quick action can save even the tiniest lives.
