As colder weather conditions remain, Water Safety Scotland (WSS) is issuing a warning about the dangers that frozen-over bodies of water present.
WSS aims to prevent fatalities and accidents and to alert the public that most ice-related incidents are preventable with the correct knowledge and behaviour.
Carlene McAvoy, from Water Safety Scotland, said:
“We encourage everyone to enjoy the outdoors and the benefits it brings, but it’s important to do so safely and with awareness. One key risk we want to highlight is the danger posed by frozen bodies of water.
“While ice can appear solid and inviting, there’s no way to know if it can support your weight or how deep the water is beneath. For this reason, we’re urging people to stay well clear of frozen water, keep children away, and ensure dogs are kept on leads.”
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention said:
“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.
“Falling through ice could be fatal. While ice can look and feel solid, it can suddenly crack and cause a person or dog to fall through, potentially becoming trapped under the ice.
“Pets should be kept on leads and owners should avoid throwing objects onto the ice for them to retrieve.
“If anyone does get into difficulty on the ice, do not attempt to rescue them. Dial 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service, then wait for help to arrive.”
This is the key advice from Water Safety Scotland:
- Most importantly, stay off the ice. Never be tempted to venture onto ice – you have no way of knowing how thick it is and how cold and deep the water beneath is. The water beneath could also be fast-flowing. Don’t ever risk it.
- Keep a safe distance from the edge. Fallen leaves or snow could obscure the water’s true boundary.
- Stick to well-lit areas – the reduction in daylight in the winter adds to risks around water
- Check for safety signage. This can help inform you of hazards in that area you may not be aware of.
- Always supervise children. Just a moment’s distraction could have serious consequences for a curious child.
- Keep dogs on leads. Otherwise, they could end up on the ice and in danger. Also don’t throw sticks and balls for dogs near ice. If your dog falls through the ice, don’t go in for your dog – encourage the dog to swim over to you or use a branch or pole to pull them out without venturing onto the ice.
If you fall through the ice:
- Float on your back with your arms and legs extended until you can control your breathing
- Stay calm and call for help if possible
- Look for something to hold onto to help yourself out the water
If you encounter someone who has fallen through ice:
- Call 999 and request the assistance of the emergency services
- Remain calm and give clear, accurate information about the situation and location
- Do not attempt to go out onto the ice yourself
To support communities to share and display this advice in their local areas, WSS have developed ice safety resources such as posters, a leaflet and social media assets which are available from the WSS website to download and use. These are free of charge and available to everyone. The resources can be accessed here.
