Dogwalkers plunge into freezing lake while attempting to rescue pets

Two people fell through the ice while trying to rescue their dogs from a frozen pond in Warwickshire.

What started as a dog walk spiralled into multi-agency rescue effort in Bedworth on Saturday, after a man and a woman became stranded.

One had ventured onto the ice at Sidings Pool in an attempt to rescue their pets.

When they fell through, the other went out to save them, leaving both of them stuck for 20 minutes.

Fortunately, there were other people in the area who saw them fall in and dialled 999.

It took police, firefighters and ambulance workers deploying life buoys, life rings and throw lines to pull them back out.

The pair had spent so long in the icy water, they had to be treated for hypothermia and taken to hospital.

Both dogs survived, apparently unharmed, after being kept warm at the scene.

The incident promoted Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service to issue a warning: ‘It serves as a critical reminder of the risks associated with icy conditions.

‘Pet owners are advised to keep pets off icy surfaces, walk them on a leash, and avoid entering the water themselves if their pets get into trouble. Instead, contact emergency services by calling 999.

‘Remember that the safety of both pets and owners is paramount, and attempting personal rescue can lead to tragic consequences.

‘We urge all community members to exercise caution during cold weather conditions and to prioritise safety for themselves and their pets.’

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