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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Claire Harrison & Lorna Hughes & Katie Weston

Police search outdoor pool after kids seen on ice days after 4 boys die in lake tragedy

Police searched an outdoor pool today after children were reportedly seen walking on the ice.

A fire engine and speedboat are believed to have raced to Seeswood Pool near Nuneaton, Warwickhire last night following reports of youngsters playing on the frozen lake and even wading into the water.

Officers remained on the scene for around four hours to carry out searches and house-to-house enquiries "as a precautionary measure", said police. A helicopter was also seen circling overhead, reports Coventry Live.

There is nothing to suggest that any of the youngsters were harmed, added the force.

They were spotted on the ice at roughly 3.25pm.

There is nothing to suggest that any of the youngsters were harmed (Coventry Live/Tristan Potter)

In an update at 9.15pm, Warwickshire Police said: "Throughout the afternoon and this evening we have been conducting a search to ensure young people who were reportedly walking on the ice at Nuneaton’s Seeswood Pool are safe and well.

"This was a precautionary measure, and it was conducted alongside our colleagues at Warwickshire Fire and Rescue.

"No evidence has been found that anyone has come to any harm. Should there be any updates, we will share them accordingly.

"If you have further information relating to the initial incident, please call us on 101, citing incident 230 of December 14."

The report comes after a number of water-related fatalities in recent days as temperatures dip below freezing, including four boys who tragically fell through an icy lake in Solihull on Sunday afternoon.

Police swarmed around the outdoor pool last night (BPM MEDIA)

Four deaths were also reported after a small boat crossing the Channel sank off the coast of Kent yesterday, with more than 40 people being rescued.

And a man in his 20s died after plunging into the River Thames amid freezing temperatures on Monday.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has now issued advice on what to do if you witness someone falling through ice, as temperatures continue to drop across the UK.

Brits are urged to call 999 and not to attempt going on the ice themselves, tell the person to stay still to maintain heat and energy, and try finding something which will extend your reach, such as a branch, then pull them in once you are in a stable position.

The RoSPA has issued advice on what to do if you witness someone falling through ice (file photo) (Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)

David Walker, head of road and leisure safety at RoSPA, said: "With the current weather conditions as they are, it's important that people are especially careful around open waters.

"If you encounter somebody who is in trouble on or near ice, it's vital that you don't go in too."

The Royal Life Saving Society has also issued urgent winter weather advice.

An RLSS spokeswoman said: "In winter, children and pets are particularly at risk when tempted to play on the ice formed on open water, and adults can find themselves at risk in attempting to save them.

"Taking a nice walk in cold weather with your family, friends or dogs in tow can be really refreshing, just make sure you know some simple tips on how to stay safe in winter.

"Areas with frozen lakes, ponds, canals and reservoirs can be beautiful places to visit during the winter months but all too often many people risk their lives by venturing onto frozen water."

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