With yellow weather warnings for snow and ice showing across parts of the UK today and beyond, we'd like to remind you to stay safe and be careful around frozen bodies of water over the festive period.

If you have a body of frozen water - whether a wildlife pond, SuDS, stream or other watercourse - please stay clear and exercise caution.

The idea of skating, playing on or crossing a frozen body of water may seem tempting but can be extremely dangerous. There is no way to tell how thick the ice is, and there is a serious risk of falling through into the icy water - as well as cold water shock, which can lead to a sudden loss of consciousness.

Please see the following advice from the Royal Life Saving Society: 

• Children should not go on the ice under any circumstances
• Stay away from the edge of bodies of water as uneven terrain can make slips and falls more likely
• Whenever possible, stick to well-lit routes away from water
• Keep dogs on a lead when they're near the ice, and don't throw sticks or toys onto the ice

If you see someone fall through the ice

• Shout for assistance and phone the emergency services (call 999 or 112).
• Do not walk or climb onto the ice to attempt a rescue.
• Try to reach them from the bank using a rope, pole, tree branch or clothing tied together.
• If you cannot reach them, try to slide something which floats across the ice for them to hold whilst help is on the way.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us for assistance.