15/12/2022
Sharing as I think this appropriate important information for dogs as well as children โ๏ธ๐๐พ
In view of recent events in the West Midlands we wish to share the following warnings & advice about the dangers of frozen water.
Every year children are at risk when they are tempted to play on the ice formed on open waters and adults find themselves at risk as they attempt to save them. Over 50% of ice related drowning involved an attempted rescue of another person or a dog.
Areas with frozen waters can be beautiful to look at but they are also extremely dangerous.
Here are some useful tips to help you enjoy these areas safely:
โพNever go on the ice under ANY circumstances. This includes attempting to rescue another person or animal who may have fallen through the ice.
โพOnly use well lit areas: Try to take walks in the daylight but if you must walk in the evening, only use well lit areas and avoid anywhere with water.
โพKeep away from the edge of the water: Never go close to the edge or lean over to touch the ice. You may over balance or trip and fall in.
โพAlways walk with an adult or a group of friends. Look out for each other and if someone does fall through the ice there will be others around to raise the alarm and get help.
What to do if you fall through the ice:
โพKeep calm and shout โhelpโ.
โพSpread your arms across the surface of the ice in front of you.
โพTry to kick your legs and pull yourself out of the water and on to the ice.
โพLie flat, spreading your weight across the surface and pull yourself to the bank. you may find it easier to roll.
โพIf you cannot climb out, wait for help and keep as still as possible.
โพKeep your head above the water, press your arms by your side and keep your legs together
Once you are safe, it is important that you go to hospital immediately for a check up
What to do if you see someone fall through the ice:
โพShout for โhelpโ and dial 999 or 112 if you can - do not walk on to the ice to attempt a rescue
โพShout to the person to โkeep stillโ and offer reassurance.
โพIf they are close enough, lie down to avoid overbalancing and falling onto the ice, and try to reach them with a tree branch clothing tied together or anything else which can extend your reach.
โพIf you cannot reach them, slide something which floats across the ice, such as a plastic bottle or a football , so that they can hold on to it to stay afloat whilst help is on the way.
โพIf they are too far away, wait for the emergency services and reassure the casualty from the safety of the bank.