Fire Service issues safety advice after reports of people on frozen water

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to take care around water during this period of cold weather and to never walk on to frozen ponds, lakes and rivers.

There have been multiple reports this week of people walking or playing on frozen bodies of water. While it can look fun, the ice may not be as thick as it appears to be and there is a high-risk of falling through. Water at this time of year will be freezing and can send bodies into cold-water shock.

To reduce the risk of falling into cold water:

• Do not walk or play on ice
• Keep your pets away from ice and on leads at all times
• If your pet enters extremely cold water, do not attempt to rescue them yourself – you could put yourself in danger and they are more likely to rescue themselves
• If you go for a walk near water, try and go during daylight hours when visibility is good. If not, make sure the route is well lit
• Stay away from the water’s edge

If you find yourself in the water, relax and float on your back to catch your breath. Try and get hold of something that will help to keep you afloat while keeping calm and calling for help before swimming to safety if you are able to.

If you see someone in difficulty in the water, remember CALL, TELL, THROW:

CALL 999 and ask for the fire service

TELL the person to float on their back

THROW them something that floats, could be a branch or even a football