13/12/2022
After all that's happened with the cold weather this last week and more reports of young people walking and playing on a frozen lakes / rivers in Lancashire - we want to send out a reminder and highlight just how dangerous playing near, or on frozen water really is...
Falling into the water can cause cold water shock, which affects your muscles, nerves and brain power, making it almost impossible to get to safety or even ask for help. It simply is not worth risking your life over.
Please familiarise yourself and your children with the below tips:
👉 Stay away from the edge of bodies of water, as uneven terrain can make slips and falls more likely and whenever possible, stick to well-lit routes away from water.
👉 If you see someone fall in, dial 999. Do not walk or climb onto the ice to attempt a rescue.
👉 Shout to the casualty to ‘keep still’ and offer reassurance to keep them calm.
👉 Try and reach them from the bank if practical using a rope, pole, tree branch, or anything else such as clothing tied together. Passing or sliding them something that will help them float such as a football may also help.
👉 Keep dogs on a lead when they're near the ice, and don't throw sticks or toys onto the ice. If a pet falls in, do not go into the ice or water to rescue them, move somewhere where the dog can climb out and call them to you.
👉 Try and make sure if called for help, someone is able to direct emergency services to the location as accurately and quickly as possible.
As a team, our thoughts are with all those affected by the tragedies earlier this week. Please share this message and don't let a similar situation happen again.
