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15
Jan
Rescue operation after man and dog fall through ice near Masham
A man and dog had to be rescued from freezing water today when they fell into a thawing lake.
All emergency services, including Yorkshire Air Ambulance, were called to Marfield Wetlands near Masham.
According to a North Yorkshire Police statement, the dog fell through the ice and the man in his 20s suffered the same fate when he went to help.
Both were rescued and the man was taken to hospital. The dog is said to be safe and well.
The statement added:
While this incident had a positive outcome, it serves as a critical reminder: if your dog goes onto the ice or falls in, do not follow them.
Tragically, it’s often the person who goes after the dog who doesn’t survive.
Stepping onto frozen water is incredibly dangerous. Even if the ice near the bank seems thick, it often becomes thinner as you move toward the centre. There’s no guarantee the ice can support a person’s weight.
If someone falls through, they may disappear beneath the surface, out of sight and away from help, and can drown quickly.
The force said the freezing water can overwhelm the body and leave people unable to help themselves.
Police also issued advice to prevent similar situations:
Stay calm and do not go onto the ice yourself. If the ice couldn’t support your dog’s weight, it won’t support yours.
Call your dog to encourage them to return to safety.
If your dog can’t get out, call 999 immediately and ask for the fire and rescue service.
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