DOG walkers are being warned of the dangers of frozen rivers and lakes.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) says at least four people died after falling through ice last year, with many more near misses.
In more than half of fatal accidents in recent years, the victim had been attempting to rescue another person or dog. It was common for a dog to scramble to safety when the its owner did not.
RoSPA urges people to keep dogs on a lead.
If a person falls through the ice, passers-by should dial 999 and not attempt to go out on the ice, but try pulling the person to safety, with the help of a rope, pole or branch if possible. Alternatively, find a floating object and push it to them.
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