How to keep you and your family safe
The tragedy in Solihull this past week has touched many people and highlighted the importance of water safety this winter as temperatures continue to plummet.
It’s important to have open and honest discussions regarding how to stay safe out there, especially with children as they explore their environment in the cold!
What to do if you get in trouble?
There are a few key rules when out and about in freezing temperatures.
Stay in well lit areas.
Black ice can be difficult to spot and to give you the best chance of avoiding a fall, stay in well lit areas.
Stay away from icy water.
Children and pets are extremely prone to wonder on frozen water, it’s important to outline the immense danger that open water can present – teach and reiterate to children how dangerous this can be, if you live near an area of open water.
Don’t be a hero!
If you find yourself or a pet in trouble around icy water, follow these crucial steps.
- Do not attempt to rescue a pet, stay calm and go near the banking and call them over.
- Call for help – 112 or 999
- If the ice breaks around you, smash any large chunks and work your way towards the banking
- If you cannot get out, stay still and keep arms close to the body and legs closed with your head above water.
More information can be found at the Royal Life Saving Society here
