Danger: ice can kill, warns South Yorkshire fire service

FIREFIGHTERS are reminding the public to steer clear of frozen water as the temperature plummets this weekend.

Forecasters are predicting a spell of sub-zero temperatures, with stretches of water to ice over.

Every winter, several people across the UK die after falling through ice, often in an attempt to rescue another person or animal.

The sub-zero conditions could also lead to a spike in house fires, as homeowners turn to alternative ways to keep warm, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue say.

Open fires, electric blankets and heaters all present potential fire hazards in the home if they are not used with care.

Jane Malpass, SYFR head of community safety, said: “Ice-related drownings are easily preventable.

“We advise people to take care around the edges of lakes and rivers because snow can obscure them, and we recommend that dogs are kept on a lead so they do not run out on to the ice.

“Although frozen water can look tempting, there’s simply no way of knowing whether the ice will hold your weight and it's often too late by the time you find out that it won't.

"It can also be a difficult time for older people, as they find it harder to deal with the very cold temperatures.

“But taking some time out to check on an older relative or neighbour and taking some basic fire safety precautions around the home, could make a big difference to their and your safety.”

The fire service's cold weather advice includes:

Keep pets on a secure lead and don’t allow them to run onto any ice
Should a pet or person fall through ice, don't put your life at risk by attempting to rescue them yourselves, call 999 instead
If using open fires to stay warm, use a fire guard to stop flying embers
Never use a hot water bottle in the same bed as an electric blanket
Keep stand-up heaters well away from soft furnishings and anything flammable

Older people are particularly vulnerable during winter blasts, so residents are also being asked to keep an eye on relatives and neighbours to keep them safe.

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