'Stay off the ice' warns the Fire and Rescue Service

Photo: Graham Ward

Hollingworth Lake

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are warning people of the extreme dangers of ice and open water as the cold weather conditions continue.

So far during this current cold period the Fire and Rescue Service have responded to a total of 13 incidents across Greater Manchester, each requiring a specialist water incident unit.
 
This includes responding to a total of four people requiring rescuing after becoming stranded and eight pet dogs that had become stuck whilst being out with their owners. On each occasion an emergency response was made by the Fire and Rescue Service water incident unit using specialist rescue equipment.
    
County Fire Officer Steve McGuirk said: “It is an almost inevitable fact that a spate of cold weather usually means we will find ourselves attending incidents involving someone who has got into difficulty whilst playing on or near a frozen pond or waterway. It may seem attractive to people but it is all too easy for them to get into trouble."
 
Venturing onto frozen ponds, lakes and canals is extremely dangerous; falling through the ice can so easily have fatal results. Children are particularly at risk, and parents and guardians are asked to remind them of the dangers.
 
Pets are also likely to become stranded if not kept under close control; this often leads to people risking their own lives to reach them.
 
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are urging people to remember the following advice:
 

• Do not go onto ice-covered lakes, ponds or rivers – it’s not safe. (In the event of entering icy water hypothermia can set in very quickly reducing the ability to get out safely).

• The ice closest to the bank may appear to be thick but it becomes thinner towards the middle.

• If a dog or another animal falls through the ice, do not go to its rescue, if the ice did not support the animal it will not take your weight.

• Do not become a victim; always call the Emergency Services on 999.

• If you do see a person or animal in difficulties call 999 and direct the Emergency Services on their arrival.