Young people have been warned to avoid frozen bodies of water after the deaths of three children who fell into a frozen lake on Sunday.
The boys, aged 11, ten and eight, were seen playing on the frozen lake in Babbs Mill Park in Solihull before falling in at 2.36pm on Sunday.
The incident has left another boy, aged six, in a critical condition in hospital.
Nithsdale Police had issued an urgent warning following reports of young people on patches of ice, asking them to avoid frozen lochs, rivers, ponds, canals and reservoirs.
The force said that while the ice may appear thick, “there is no way of telling how strong it is”.
READ MORE: Three schoolboys die after being pulled from icy lake
A statement read: We have received calls from the public concerned about young people on patches of ice.
“It may appear like fun to be on ice, but whilst the ice may appear thick, there is no way of telling how strong it is.
“Keep yourselves and your young people safe. Stay off the ice.”
It follows an urgent warning on Monday from the the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), that ice can suddenly crack – causing a person to fall through, and potentially become trapped underneath.
SFRS asked that parents, carers and guardians inform their children of the dangers, and dog owners to keep their pets on a lead and off the ice.
Consequences of falling into freezing water can be fatal as the low temperature can bring on cold-water shock, which can then lead to a heart attack.
ITVREAD MORE: Warning to avoid frozen lochs after tragic deaths of three children
If someone near you does face difficulty on the ice, you should phone 999, ask for fire crews and wait for them to arrive – do not attempt to rescue them yourself.
If you are facing trouble in frozen water, try to conserve your energy by staying as still as possible while waiting for help to arrive.
“Following the tragic events of the weekend, our thoughts are very much with the families, friends and local communities at this sad time,” said SFRS area commander for prevention and protection, David Dourley.
“We strongly urge everyone to please be aware of the dangers of frozen water. We know the ice can look inviting but do not be tempted to walk on ice. It can easily crack and cause a person to fall through.
READ MORE: Temperatures plummet below -15C in coldest night of 2022 amid warning
“Don’t wander too near to the edge, icy conditions could cause you to slip and fall in and don’t be tempted to test how solid the water is.
“Adults should set a good example by staying off the ice and we also ask that parents, carers and guardians ensure children are aware of the dangers of frozen water.
“We don’t want your winter walk to end in tragedy so please avoid going near frozen water when you are out with loved ones and pets.”
More information on cold-water shock can be found here.
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