Dog rescue prompts frozen waters warning
WITH freezing temperatures making conditions treacherous in various parts of the region, Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade are urging the public to stay away from frozen bodies of water.
The warning comes after firefighters were called to rescue a dog that had fallen through the ice on Monday morning.
Crews were mobilised to Threipmuir Reservoir at 10.15am following a report that a black Labrador had fallen into the water after crossing the ice. The reservoirs had partially frozen over.
Firefighters liaised with the Pentland Hills Ranger Service but the dog was rescued by the owner using an inflatable dingy.
A spokeswoman for Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said: “It is important to stay well clear of frozen bodies of water, they are unsafe.
“There is no way of knowing whether the ice will hold and it is very easy to get into difficulties very quickly.
“The risk of people or animals falling through the ice will greatly increase as the weather improves and the ice thaws.
“Do not try to cross iced rivers, streams or reservoirs and keep dogs on a lead if they are likely to be near the ice.
“If a person or a pet falls through the ice call 999 immediately – don’t try to carry out a rescue yourself – you could make the situation worse. Wait for the emergency services who have the appropriate training and equipment to help safely.
“Firefighters will risk assess the situation but they will not put themselves in danger to rescue a pet. Reduce the risks of your dog coming to harm by exercising caution around frozen waterways at this time of year.”
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Weather for Duns
Monday 21 May 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 5 C to 13 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 8 C to 18 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: North east
