Warnings against walking on frozen water after three schoolboys die in icy Solihull lake

Members of the public have been warned to avoid walking on frozen water following the deaths of three children who fell into a frozen lake on Sunday.

The boys, aged 11, ten and eight, were seen playing on the frozen lake in Babbs Mill Park in Solihull before falling in at 2.36pm on Sunday.

The incident has left another boy, aged six, in a critical condition in hospital.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has issued an urgent warning following the incident, asking people to avoid frozen lochs, rivers, ponds, canals and reservoirs.

The service said that while the ice may look solid, it can suddenly crack – causing a person to fall through, and potentially become trapped under the ice.

Search efforts continue on the lake until crews are '100% certain' nobody else fell in. — Search efforts continue on the lake until crews are ‘100% certain’ nobody else fell in. ITV

SFRS has asked that parents, carers and guardians inform their children of the dangers, and dog owners to keep their pets on a lead and off the ice.

Consequences of falling into freezing water can be fatal as the low temperature can bring on cold-water shock, which can then lead to a heart attack.

If someone near you does face difficulty on the ice, you should phone 999, ask for fire crews and wait for them to arrive – do not attempt to rescue them yourself.

If you are facing trouble in frozen water, try to conserve your energy by staying as still as possible while waiting for help to arrive.

“Following the tragic events of the weekend, our thoughts are very much with the families, friends and local communities at this sad time,” said SFRS area commander for prevention and protection, David Dourley.

“We strongly urge everyone to please be aware of the dangers of frozen water. We know the ice can look inviting but do not be tempted to walk on ice. It can easily crack and cause a person to fall through.

“Don’t wander too near to the edge, icy conditions could cause you to slip and fall in and don’t be tempted to test how solid the water is.

“Adults should set a good example by staying off the ice and we also ask that parents, carers and guardians ensure children are aware of the dangers of frozen water.

“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.”

More information on cold-water shock can be found here.