It was another busy evening for members of Local 830 City of Norwalk Fire Department as they responded to 50 Washington St. on Saturday, December 7, at 18:26hrs for an individual dressed as Santa Clause stuck on the side of the building approximately 60 feet above the ground.

This incident took place at the Norwalk Holiday Extravaganza. The individual dressed as Santa Clause was rappelling down the side of the 13 story building when part of his costume became entangled in the rigging and he became stuck in place.

Norwalk Fire Department was notified and responded with a “technical rescue assignment” consisting of a Rescue company, Truck Company, an Engine Company, and the Shift Commander totaling 13 Norwalk Professional Firefighters. Additionally, an Engine company with 4 NFD Local 830 members that was on “firewatch” at this event along with multiple NFD Fire Marshals assisted on scene.

The “firewatch” Engine Co. (Engine 9) made initial contact with the stuck individual via a window on the 6th floor. A safety line was attached to the individual (Santa) and anchored to the inside of the building. A window was removed and the individual was safety transferred to the inside of the building.

There were no reported injuries to firefighters or to Santa who is going to stick to chimneys from now on and leave the rappelling to NFD Firefighters.