Police and fire crews have warned people to be careful near Lancaster Canal and other frozen local waterways following the deaths of three children.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue and local police issued a warning after three boys, aged eight, 10 and 11, died after falling into an icy lake near Solihull in the Midlands.
A fourth boy, aged six, remains in a critical condition in hospital after being pulled from the icy water.
Lancaster Canal and other waterways in the area have frozen over in the recent sub-zero temperatures.
Schoolchildren have been seen playing near the canal and throwing items onto the frozen surface, and residents have raised concerns that people might try to walk on the ice.
Our photos show the frozen Lancaster Canal on Monday. Images by Paul Fisher.
“In cold weather, Lancashire’s canals and lakes can sometimes freeze over and when this happens, it can seem like a fun idea to walk or play on the ice," said a Lancashire Fire and Rescue spokesperson.
"However, it is extremely dangerous to do so.
“Our waterways never freeze thickly enough to be safe to walk upon. If the ice breaks and you fall through, the cold water can cause your body to go into shock. It’s not as simple as just climbing out of the water; the very low temperatures can stop your body from working properly and put you at risk of drowning.
“We strongly recommend you do not venture out onto the ice. Never let children or pets play on the ice, either - it’s simply not worth the risk.
“If you see a person or animal trapped on the ice, call the emergency services straight away on 999.
“Stay safe and stay off the ice.”
A police spokesperson said: "We have been made aware of a group of youths walking and playing on the frozen canal at Lancaster and in Carnforth. We want to highlight just how dangerous playing near, or on, frozen water really is.
"This comes after the tragic loss of life in Solihull over the weekend – our thoughts are with all those affected by this terrible tragedy.
Paul Fisher from Beyond Radio, who often walks near Lancaster Canal, said: "The tragedy in Solihull makes everyone think about the fact that there's a lot of what might look like tempting ice around at the moment.
"Down by the canal on Aldcliffe Road, I saw a lot of schoolchildren throwing things onto the surface of the canal on Friday. The ice really isn't that thick and people should be very careful going anywhere near it."
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