From East Herts and Broxbourne District Community Fire Safety Co-Ordinator :

Stay safe in winter – the dangers of frozen waters

Over the last few days Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue have attended water and ice incidents where people have been at risk of falling through frozen lakes and rivers due to rescuing a pet or not seeing the dangers of such activities.

Children and pets are particularly at risk when tempted to play on the ice formed on open water, and adults can find themselves at risk in attempting to save them.

Taking a nice walk in cold weather with your family, friends or dogs in tow can be really refreshing, just make sure you know some simple tips on how to stay safe in winter.

Areas with frozen lakes, ponds, canals and reservoirs can be beautiful places to visit during the winter months but all too often many people risk their lives by venturing onto frozen water.

Here are some useful tips to help you know what to do in an emergency.

Teach children not to go on the ice Teach children not to go onto the ice under any circumstances.

Don’t go on the ice to rescue a dog Don’t go onto ice or into the water to rescue a dog, move to somewhere that the dog will be able to climb out and call them towards you.

Keep dogs on their leads Keep dogs on their leads when near ice and don’t throw sticks or toys onto the ice.

Only use well-lit areas Time your walks to make the most of the daylight; if you need to walk in the evening only use well-lit areas or take a route not alongside water.

Keep back from the edge When walking alongside water keep back from the edge.

Please visit the RLSS website on this link, to see useful tools on how to get your children talking about winter water safety: Winter Water Safety | Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )

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