Teen rushed to hospital after becoming trapped on frozen pond with dog
A TEENAGER was rushed to hospital after becoming trapped on a frozen pond with their dog.
Fire crews were called out to save the teen and pet after they got into difficulty on the water at Whipps Cross Road, Leytonstone, east London.
The incident happened at around 11.26am on Monday, January 23 and the teen was rushed to hospital.
Three fire engines and two fire rescue units were needed from Walthamstow, Bethnal Green and Euston fire stations to carry out the rescue.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson issued a warning and said: “Walking out onto frozen ponds or lakes is extremely dangerous. Never assume that the ice is thick enough to support you.
“It may look sturdy enough to stand on, but it often isn’t and can be of variable thickness especially as you move away from the edge where the ice is often thinner.
“If you fall into icy water, the risk of hypothermia is very high and can prove fatal. We see a number of people who put themselves in danger by attempting to rescue pets that have become stranded or trapped, and then they also need to be rescued by the brigade.
“Dog owners should keep them on a lead and keep a close eye on them.
“Firefighters are trained and have specialist equipment to rescue those who do get stuck on, or in, an icy lake or pond, so if you see a person or an animal in difficulty don’t put yourself at risk by going in after them.
“Call 999, keep your eye on them and stay off the ice.”