Emergency services issued a stark warning about the dangers of frozen water after rescuing a teenage boy who fell through ice on a lake in a Midlands park.
Dramatic Rescue in Victoria Park
On Monday, January 5, at 3.35pm, emergency services were called to Victoria Park, also known as Tunstall Park, in Stoke-on-Trent. A 13-year-old boy had fallen through the thin ice covering the lake. The teenager managed to scramble to an island in the middle of the water but was left stranded and in need of rescue.
Four fire engines and a specialist water rescue team from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the scene. They were joined by colleagues from West Midlands Ambulance Service, who sent an ambulance and two paramedic officers.
Crews successfully used a sled to reach the boy and bring him to safety. A spokesperson for the ambulance service confirmed the boy received treatment at the scene but did not require hospitalisation and was left in the care of his family.
A Timely Warning Following Similar Incidents
The incident occurred on the same day that children were seen playing on an icy pool at Sutton Park in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham. Witnesses reported seeing youngsters, one with a bicycle, on the frozen water on the final day of the Christmas holidays.
These events have raised serious concerns, bringing back memories of the tragedy at Babbs Mill Lake in Solihull just over three years ago. Crew Manager Colin Wright, who attended the Stoke rescue, emphasised the potential for disaster. "Thankfully, the boy was not seriously hurt, but the outcome could have been very different," he stated.
Critical Safety Advice Issued
In response to the incident, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service reiterated crucial safety advice for the public regarding frozen bodies of water.
The key warnings issued by the brigade are:
- Never attempt to walk on frozen lakes, ponds, or canals. The ice is often thinner than it appears and cannot support your weight.
- Keep a safe distance from the edges of waterways, as banks can be slippery and you could fall in.
- Ensure children understand the severe dangers of playing on or near ice.
- Adults must set a good example by staying off the ice themselves.
- Always keep dogs on a lead near frozen water. If a pet falls in, call 999 immediately and never attempt a rescue yourself.
The fire service stressed that falling into freezing water can lead to cold water shock, making it difficult to swim and dramatically increasing the risk of drowning. The public is urged to enjoy parks and green spaces safely during the cold snap and to report anyone in danger on ice to the emergency services without delay.
