Don’t skate on thin ice this Christmas, warns water company

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Thrill seekers in the North West are being warned that they are risking their lives by playing on frozen reservoirs.
 
The surfaces of many reservoirs in the region have frozen over in the sub-zero temperatures, tempting reckless residents to play on the ice.
 
Water company United Utilities, which owns around 150 reservoirs across the North West, is urging people to stay safe, by staying away.
 
A spokesperson for the company said: "Frozen reservoirs may look tempting, but they can be deadly. If you fall though the ice, the water is so cold that it can quickly numb the limbs, preventing movement and leading to real risk of drowning.
 
"Already this week, our teams have witnessed hundreds of people playing on our reservoirs. Incredibly, it is not just teenagers indulging in this activity, but also parents with young children, and people walking dogs who think its funny to throw a ball onto the ice for the dog to chase.
 
"We do everything we can to keep people off the ice, and there are plenty of warning signs around, but ultimately, people have to be sensible and take responsibility for their own safety."
 
The temperature of the water beneath the ice is cold enough to take one's breath away, which can lead to panic and drowning.
 
The coldness can make arms and legs numb, preventing movement, and can lead to hypothermia - serious reduction in body temperature which can cause heart failure.
 
Reservoir safety advice and educational activity sheets for young people are available at www.unitedutilities.com/reservoirsafety