Serious safety concerns have been raised after a group of schoolchildren were spotted walking on a frozen lake in Swindon.
The incident happened off Sherrer Lane in Tadpole Garden Village this afternoon (Monday) – with witnesses reporting that it was being used as an ice rink.
‘Why do these children not understand that a frozen pond is not an ice rink?’, a local resident posted on social media alongside a photograph.
They added: ‘There were at least eight children playing on it after school and there is no safety equipment in Sherrer Lane if anyone falls in!
‘I have called the school and made them aware as it was shocking that these children had no idea of what could happen.’
Emergency services warn that frozen ponds and lakes can be extremely dangerous, even when the surface appears solid from the bank.
Back in December 2023, tragically four children died when they walked out on a frozen lake in Solihull.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said there is no reliable way of knowing how thick ice is, and it can thin rapidly without warning.
In winter conditions, the shock of falling into icy water can take a person’s breath away, which can quickly lead to panic and drowning.
Cold water can cause arms and legs to become numb, making it impossible to swim, and can rapidly lead to hypothermia, a serious reduction in body temperature that can be fatal even for strong swimmers.
Fire crews advise people to never walk onto frozen water, even if it appears thick from the bank, as it can weaken very quickly.
They also warn people to keep away from icy edges, as wet and slippery ground can cause someone to fall into the water.
Parents are urged to make sure children understand how dangerous it is to play on ice, and adults are reminded to set a good example by staying off frozen water themselves.
Dog owners are advised to keep pets on leads near frozen ponds and never attempt a rescue if an animal gets into difficulty, as many ice-related drownings involve attempted rescues.
Anyone who sees a person fall through ice should call 999 immediately, stay off the ice, and try to help from the bank using something long to reach them while lying down to avoid being pulled in.
Those rescued from icy water should receive medical attention as soon as possible due to the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related injuries.
