AS THE cold snap continues residents are being urged to stay safe and warm.
The Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued an Amber Weather warning for the region, which is set to be in place until Friday (January 9).
Temperatures have plummeted down to minus five degrees in some areas with icy conditions on the road.
West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) is also urging residents to stay well away from lakes, ponds, rivers, canals and reservoirs.
WMFS is particularly concerned about the risks to children, who may be tempted to play near or on frozen water, and dog walkers who may instinctively venture on to ice or into the water if a pet gets into difficulty.
Parents and carers are urged to speak to children about the dangers, to ensure they understand that no ice is ever safe.
Dog walkers are advised to keep pets on leads near water during icy conditions, and never to enter the water themselves.
Emily Fernandez, WMFS’ head of prevention, said: “The loss of four young boys at Babbs Mill Lake is still a very real and raw memory for our communities. Our thoughts remain with their families and friends.
“Frozen water can look harmless, but it’s one of the most dangerous winter hazards we face. Please help us to avert another tragedy.
“Keep children and dogs away from water, never step onto ice, and – crucially – don’t enter water or venture on to ice if a person or animal gets into difficulty. Call 999 immediately and ask for the fire service.”
Cold water shock can affect anyone, regardless of age or swimming ability, and can quickly lead to loss of control, exhaustion and drowning.
WMFS offered the following advice on what to do if you see someone else fall through ice:
- shout for help, call 999 or 112 and – if the incident involves inland water – ask for the fire servicedo not go on to ice to attempt a rescue
- call out to the casualty and encourage them to stay calm and try to reach the person from the bank, using an means possible, lie down flat on the bank, to avoid slipping or being pulled in
- if you can’t reach them, try sliding something that floats – like a football or large plastic bottle – to them, to help them float
- wait for the emergency services to arrive. Continue to calm and reassure the person.
The Met Office has issued the following severe cold weather advice:
- Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately
- Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over
- Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold-related illness or falls and stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts on the Met Office website
- Anyone concerned about their health or somebody they care for should click here, call NHS 111, or visit the local pharmacist for advice.
