Firefighters have issued a stark warning about the dangers of walking on ice after they spotted children trying to do it near a lake earlier today. Cleveland Fire Brigade crews spotted youths trying to walk on the ice at Hemlington Lake in Middlesbrough. They had been called to the scene to rescue a dog that had fallen into the icy water.
The warning comes as the UK is still in shock over Sunday’s tragedy when four children died after falling into Babbs Mill lake in Solihull.
The families of the four boys, aged six to eleven, paid tribute to them today.
All four children have now been named and West Midlands Police have confirmed that three of the four are related.
Finlay Butler, eight, his brother Sam Butler, six, and their cousin Thomas Stewart, 11, all died in the tragic accident.
Six-year-old Sam became the fourth boy to die after being taken to hospital in critical condition, but lost his battle on Wednesday.
Jack Johnson was the first boy named after his family to pay tribute to his bravery in rescuing the other boys.
The 10-year-old’s aunt, Ms McIlmurray, said: “My cousin saw one go through the ice and he ran and tried to save them.
“We’re just devastated and to find out he died trying to save three guys he didn’t even know just sums him up. He was amazing.”
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They have now also said that the dog has died and they offer their condolences to the owner.
The spokesperson added: “This is another strong reminder to reiterate the message to stay well away from frozen ponds and lakes.”
The StayWise poster provides information about the dangers of frozen water and includes tips on how to stay safe.
There are also tips on what to do if you see someone has fallen through the ice.