Young people are putting themselves at risk by venturing on to frozen lakes and ponds in York and North Yorkshire.
That’s the message from the emergency services today (Monday).
York police said: “We have had numerous calls from member of the public reporting children on the ice , and also adults with children on the ice.
“Walking on a frozen lake is extremely dangerous and can be fatal due to the unpredictable nature of ice thickness, the risk of falling through, and the effects of cold water shock and hypothermia.”
Video – Snow in York
A North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We’ve had reports of young people playing on frozen ponds. It might look fun, but it’s extremely dangerous.
“Please do not go onto ice-covered lakes, ponds, or rivers – it’s not safe! Ice can appear thick near the edge but gets thinner toward the middle.
“Falling into icy water can cause hypothermia very quickly, making it hard to get out.
“If a dog or animal falls through, do not go after them – if the ice didn’t hold them, it won’t hold you. Call 999 for help.”
It comes after the Friends of Rowntree Park posted about children going on the pond in the park.
The group posted the picture above and urged parents to tell their children not to go on the ice.
They said: “The ice may appear solid, but there are weak patches and it can give way without warning.
“While some areas of the lake are only around 2-3ft deep, falling through ice is still dangerous, especially in cold water, and the lakes are also full of goose waste, which brings additional health risks.”
Safety tips
These are the safety tips from the North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service:
Safety Tips:
- Never venture onto frozen water – it can crack without warning
- Adults: set a good example by staying off the ice
- Don’t throw sticks or balls onto the ice for dogs
- If you see someone in trouble, call 999 immediately.
