Branden Collins, a line worker at Eversource, was all smiles after being hailed a hero.
“I've never had the chance to rescue anything, ha ha. This is my first time,” he said.
He was de-energizing a high-voltage area around an abandoned building in Stamford last month when he and a few workers spotted what they described as a ball of fur.
“We weren't sure what it was, but it was in this energized area right near the Energize transformers,” he continued.
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When he got closer, he realized it was four kittens.
He acted fast, understanding they were in a dangerous area.
“We got animal control out and we were able to get the kittens out once we deenergized. I picked them all up. I carried them all out," he said.
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While the kittens were in seemingly good health, a few did have some minor burns.
They’re now being cared for by Animal Nation, a non-profit animal sanctuary and rescue organization in Norwalk.
Patrick Moore, the president and executive director of Animal Nation, said the kittens are “great, eating, playing."
They even have names -- Watt, Ever, Zolt and Amp.
“I feel great. I'm happy. I'm happy that we saved them. I'm happy that they can have a better life,” Collins said.
A big reminder from Eversource is that if you ever find yourself in a situation like Branden’s, call your local utility company before trying to take action yourself.
He said if the signs read high-voltage area, believe it.
The kittens should be ready to adopt in about a month.
