Warning to keep dogs on leads near water after woman rescued

A woman has been rescued from a frozen lake after getting into difficulty trying to save her pet dog when it fell through the ice.

We were called at 1.25pm yesterday (Thursday 15 December) to reports of a woman in difficultly at The Himley Hall Great Pool, off Dudley Road in Wombourne.

It's believed that she fell into the lake trying to help her dog, which had slipped its harness and chased ducks onto the ice.

Crews from Wombourne and colleagues from West Midlands Fire Service attended the scene.

Fire fighters were compelled to enter the ice and freezing water, armed with specialist equipment in order to rescue her, whilst the dog made its own way back to land unharmed.

The woman, in her 60s, and from the local area, has been taken to hospital for further treatment. At this time her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. A fire fighter was also assessed for possible hyperthermia at the scene.

Whilst crews were preparing to leave the scene, they were informed of a second incident further down the lake, where again a dog had gone into the water.

Station Manager Russell Brown, said, "This incident is another stark reminder of how easy it can be to get into difficulty in open water and how dangerous the water can be to both members of the public and their rescuers.

"With the continuing freezing weather conditions, it's so important to be wary of the dangers and be vigilant, especially when taking dogs out on walks.

"Please avoid going near to frozen water when you are out with your loved ones and your pets.

"Please keep your dogs on the lead if you are walking them anywhere near frozen or semi-frozen ponds, lakes, canals or any other bodies of water and don't throw sticks or toys onto the ice.

"We know that many people's instincts would be to try and rescue pets from the water themselves, but please do not do this.

"Move to somewhere where the dog will be able to climb out and call them towards you, but keep back from the edge.

"Often, in most cases, the dog manages to escape unharmed but the owner is not as lucky.

"If your animal does get into difficultly call 999 and ask for the fire service, keep your eye on the animal to pass on the information to crews when they arrive."

Fire fighters will be visiting the area today to provide advice to members of the public and identify any other areas of potential risk.