Credit: Rachel Herrington.

Emergency services are asking people to keep a safe distance from icy lakes, ponds, rivers, canals and reservoirs as freezing temperatures hit the West Midlands.

Surface ice can look deceptively solid, but can give way suddenly – plunging people or pets into freezing water and serious danger.

There’s particular concern about the risks to children, who may be tempted to play near or on frozen water, and dog walkers who may instinctively venture on to ice or into the water if a pet gets into difficulty.

Emily Fernandez, Head of Prevention at West Midlands Fire Service said: “The loss of four young boys at the frozen Babbs Mill Lake three years ago is still a very real and raw memory for our communities. Our thoughts remain with their families and friends.

“Frozen water can look harmless, but it’s one of the most dangerous winter hazards we face. Please help us to avert another tragedy.

“Keep children and dogs away from water, never step onto ice, and – crucially – don’t enter water or venture on to ice if a person or animal gets into difficulty. Call 999 immediately and ask for the fire service.”

Cold water shock can affect anyone, regardless of age or swimming ability, and can quickly lead to loss of control, exhaustion and drowning.

If you fall through ice, there are some simple steps you can take:

  • stay calm, shout for help and spread your arms out across the surface of the ice in front of you
  • check if the ice is strong enough and, if it is then kick your legs to propel yourself forward
  • lie flat and use your arms to pull yourself over the ice towards the shore
  • if the ice on the water breaks, try to make your way to the bank or shore, breaking ice in front of you as you go
  • if you find yourself stuck and unable to escape, wait for help. Stay as still as possible to conserve your energy
  • bring your arms close to your sides and keep your legs together, while keeping your head out of the water.

If you see someone else fall through ice, do the following:

  • shout for help, call 999 and (if the incident involves inland water) ask for the fire service
  • do not go on to the ice yourself to attempt a rescue
  • call out to the casualty and encourage them to stay calm
  • to try to reach the person from the bank, use a rope, pole, tree branch, clothes tied together or anything else that can extend your reach
  • lie down flat on the bank, to avoid slipping or being pulled in
  • if you can’t reach them, try sliding something that floats (like a football or large plastic bottle) to them, to help them float
  • if the casualty is too far away, DO NOT try to rescue them yourself
  • wait for the emergency services to arrive and continue to calm and reassure the person.

More information can be found on the West Midlands Fire Service website.