Dog owners warned of the dangers of frozen ice
During the freezing temperatures Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service were called to rescue five dogs that were trapped on the ice.
As a result, firefighters are keen to remind dog owners how important it is to keep pets on a lead near canals, ponds and lakes which have frozen over as a result of the colder weather. This is for the safety of both the dog and themselves.
Group Manager, Bruce Nichol said:
“An investigation of 20 frozen water deaths from recent years conducted by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) revealed that the victim had been attempting to rescue another person or a dog in more than half of the incidents.
“The easiest way to prevent this happening is to keep your pets on a lead when near lakes, ponds or large areas of water which have frozen over. This will reduce the chances of them straying away from you and breaking through the ice into freezing water.”
Portfolio Holder for Community Protection, Councillor Richard Hobbs said:
“We know it is difficult for dog owners to be able to take long walks in freezing temperatures, but people need to be aware of the dangers they face should their dog get stuck on the ice. Often ice that looks thick can be easily broken and it only takes a second for someone to fall through, risking their lives and those trying to rescue them.”
If your pet does get stuck, please do not attempt to step onto the ice to rescue them, always call 999 to get specialist assistance.
Bruce continued:
“There is a cold snap on it’s way again, so I am hoping this timely message will act as a reminder for residents walking their pets in areas where there may be frozen water.”