Drownings alert over frozen water

This comes after two dogs died in Doncaster in the space of three days earlier this month, after falling through ice.

Diane Malpass, head of community safety at South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, 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.”

People are also being advised to be careful when using open fires, electric blankets and heaters, which could be hazardous.