Ice Safety

Dear Resident

Following the recent cold snap this week , ice has formed rapidly on lakes and ponds across the county.

This ice is extremely unstable and poses a massive risk to life. Over the last 24 hours, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has already attended multiple emergency incidents involving people walking or playing on frozen water. 

⚠️ Personal safety - Keep Off the Ice: 

*Never venture onto frozen water, no matter how solid it looks. Thickness is deceptive and can fail without warning. 

*Protect Children: Please speak to all younger family members immediately. Children are often tempted by frozen lakes, but the consequences of falling through can be fatal. 

*Do Not Attempt Rescues: If you see someone fall through, do not go onto the ice to help. You will likely become a second casualty. 

*Call 999 Immediately: Ask for the Fire and Rescue Service. Use the "Shout, Reach, Throw" method from the safety of the bank while waiting for professionals. 

🐾 Pet Safety Guidance:

*Keep Dogs on Leads: When walking near water, keep your dog on a short lead to prevent them from running onto the ice. 

*Never Follow a Pet onto Ice: If your pet falls through, stay on the bank. Do not enter the water or venture onto the ice to rescue them. 

*Try to call them back: From the safety of the shore, call your pet toward a point where they can climb out. 

*Request Professional Help: Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service. Firefighters have specialist equipment to rescue animals safely.

  Please share this message to help keep our community safe.