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An 8-year-old boy escaped injury after becoming trapped above a culvert while playing in the snow in McLean on Monday afternoon.
Fairfax County firefighters responded to the 1900 block of MacArthur Drive around 4:45 p.m. The boy was able to communicate with rescuers and appeared to be in good condition while crews worked to free him.
Firefighters successfully removed the child from the snow. He was not injured and was released to his mother.
Man Dies After Clearing Snow
The rescue came as Fairfax County dealt with the dangerous aftermath of Winter Storm Fern, which was linked to at least one death.
Police were called to the 9700 block of Banting Drive in Kings Park West shortly after 2:30 p.m. Sunday for a report of CPR in progress. A man in his 70s had reportedly collapsed while clearing snow outside.
He was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead.
Winter Storm Fern reached Fairfax County late Saturday, Jan. 24, bringing as much as 8.5 inches of snow and sleet through Sunday. Although the accumulation did not set a record, precipitation that froze overnight made shoveling more difficult.
County officials urged residents to avoid overexertion, particularly those with heart problems or who are usually inactive. They advised taking breaks, pushing snow instead of lifting it when possible, and consulting a doctor before shoveling for anyone with a history of heart disease.
Anyone experiencing chest discomfort should call or text 911 immediately. Residents were also encouraged to dress in layers and protect themselves from frostbite and hypothermia.
A Cold Weather Advisory remained in effect Monday night, with icy conditions expected to continue Tuesday. Fairfax County Public Schools were among the facilities scheduled to close.
Metro planned to suspend all bus service at midnight before resuming modified bus and rail operations Tuesday.