Police patrolling a nature reserve in England had to spring into action earlier today (Dec. 13) after a dog and their parent got into difficulties in a frozen lake, the Yorkshire Post reported.
Officers from South Yorkshire Police were in the Silverwood nature reserve, near the town of Rotherham, heard a woman shouting for help, and went over to investigate. She entered a frozen lake after her pup had fallen through the ice chasing a swan.
Dogs and Parent Both Safe
“PC Jamie Walker entered the lake and grabbed the dog who was frantically treading water. And then helped the woman who was knee-deep in the lake while holding her second dog”, said South Yorkshire Police.
“After speaking to the woman, officers understood how the dog was being walked off its lead when it started to chase after a swan. And as the swan flew off, it broke the ice and the dog followed it into the lake.”
Inspector Lee Carlson said: “We share a multitude of advice as the cold weather approaches, but it’s important that people don’t think ‘that won’t happen to me’.
“With the increase in freezing conditions even your routine that you have done every day may need to change. And that may be something as simple as walking your dog on the lead, not off.
“This incident is a reminder of how easy it can be to get into difficulty and distress in open water. Please be wary of the dangers, be vigilant, and stay safe.”
Safety Comes First
“This incident had a good outcome, everyone was safe, albeit some soggy footwear,” said PC Walker after drying off, changing his clothes, and continuing his shift. “However it could have been very different as we have seen from the absolutely devastating tragedy in Solihull this week.”
“Please know where your children are playing, their usual safe places may not be safe now winter has arrived. And be aware on your regular, local walks with your dogs – as the seasons change, so do the risks.”
