Children and young people love to play, it is how they learn and build relationships.

On cold winter days when there is snow there are lots of fun activities to do like: building a snowman, making snow angels, going on snow walks, going on sleigh rides.

As fun as these activities are, it’s important that we remind children and young people of the dangers associated with snow and ice.

• To keep away from frozen lakes and bodies of water – the bankside of rivers and lakes maybe slippery and a fall could result in entering the water
• Although a lake or pond may appear completely frozen, there is no way of knowing how thick the ice is, whether it will hold a person’s weight, or the depth of water is under the ice.
• Water and Ice is very cold, hypothermia can set in quickly a person falls into the water. 

Please remind your children:

• Keep off ice formed on bodies of water – it is temporary and in a state of change
• Stay a safe distance away from the edge of rivers and ponds, so if you do slip over you don’t fall onto ice formed on a pond or river.
• Whenever possible, it is best to stick to well-lit journey routes, use a torch at night to help you keep on the path, wear warm clothing and stay away from water.
• Play in groups so if someone does need help it is easier to summon assistance