Frozen water safety

Going onto frozen ponds, reservoirs, lakes and canals is dangerous and can have fatal results.

It might be tempting to walk or play on the frozen water but the ice can easily break. 

The temperature of the water is cold enough to take your breath away and lead to drowning.

Never venture onto frozen water. 

Even if it appears thick from the bank, it becomes thinner very quickly. 

Our message is simple – stay safe, stay off the ice.

Royal Life Savers Society has some useful advice and tips on how to speak to your child about the dangers of frozen water - Winter Water Safety | Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )

What to do if someone falls into frozen water

If you see a person in trouble in icy water, stay on the bank and phone 999.

If you can reach the person with a branch, clothing tied together, a river pole, or other items then you could try to do so but you must stay firmly on the bank.

Animals and frozen water

If a dog, or other animal, ventures onto the ice, or falls through it, do not go onto the ice to rescue it – you are likely to end up in the freezing water and unable to help the animal.

Never throw sticks or balls onto the ice for your dog – keep them on a lead near frozen water.