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."
Appeal launched to help save Morecambe sports and social club
Reopening date announced after Morecambe Jobcentre closes for repairs
Lancaster charity urges residents to know how they’re affected by Renters' Rights Act
Lancaster district residents urged to check their details as annual electoral canvass begins
E-bikes and e-scooters seized during police crackdown on Lancaster cycle track
Four vehicles involved in road collision in Carnforth
LISTEN: Popular vlog tells story of couple's second-hand bookshop dream in Morecambe
Emergency team in Silverdale receives donation of life-saving kits
MP offers support to staff after Morecambe FC reported to The Pensions Regulator
Track night at Lancaster sports club to launch police safety scheme for women and girls
PHOTOS: Live music day to raise funds for homeless people in Lancaster hailed as huge success
Former bank turned live music venue in Morecambe to reopen under new management
New parking system set to launch at Royal Lancaster Infirmary
Museum in Lancaster up for award launched by TV historian David Olusoga
MP fights for refunds after Heysham medical centre patients get parking fines in error
Two teenagers arrested after car stolen during Hest Bank burglary
Parents demand further action after health watchdog probe into asbestos complaints at Lancaster school
LISTEN: Lancaster medical students praised for helping man who collapsed
Man arrested on Morecambe beach after report of assault
Police probe burglaries in villages near Carnforth
