Youths spotted using frozen water at popular Derbyshire park as ‘ice skating rink’ – as police issue appeal to parents

The Matlock Safer Neighbourhood Team have issued an appeal after young people were spotted playing on frozen water in Matlock on Monday, January 5.

A team spokesperson said: “We received reports of youths using the boating lake in Hall Leys Park as an ice skating rink or scooter stunt area.

“All be it that this boating lake is not too deep, it is still deep enough to cause some level of injury.

“If you suspect that any of your young people may have been involved with this today, please discuss water safety with them.”

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service have issued the following safety advice:

Water may look safe, but it can be dangerous. Learn to spot and keep away from dangers. You may swim well in a warm indoor pool, but that does not mean that you will be able to swim in cold water.

The dangers of water include:

Very cold temperatures.

Hidden currents.

Fast flowing water – beware of locks and weirs.

In deep water it can be difficult to estimate the depth.

There may be hidden rubbish or debris under the surface that can trap, snag or cut.

It can be difficult to get out – banks can be steep, slimy and crumble away.

Most outdoors waterways do not have lifeguards.

Water pollution may make you ill.

Even in warm weather, open water in the UK remains cold enough to cause cold water shock. This will affect even a strong swimmer's ability to control their breathing and swim effectively.

To help minimise the effects of cold water shock:

Fight your instinct to panic or swim hard.

Lean back in the water to keep your airway clear.

Open your body up, extending your arms and legs, pushing your stomach up.

Actions – gently move your hands and feet to help you float.

In 60 - 90 seconds you’ll be able to control your breathing.

Where possible you should swim at a swimming pool or beach where a lifeguard is present. When this is not possible look out for special flags on beaches, and notices on inland waterways, which will tell you what to do. You can find a guide on these signs and flags below.

Never go swimming, fishing or boating alone. Children should always go with an adult, not by themselves. An adult can point out dangers or help if somebody gets into trouble.

If you see someone in difficulty, tell somebody. This might be a lifeguard if there is one nearby.

Call 999 immediately. If you are at the beach ask for the coastguard, otherwise ask for the fire service.

Never jump into the water yourself – often the rescuer becomes the casualty.

If you are in a remote area, using an app such as What3words will give emergency services an exact location.

Tell the casualty to remain calm and flost on their back.

Without putting yourself in danger, lay down at the water's edge and reach with an object, such as a stick, coat or jumper.

If there is a lockable throwline box, call 999 and the fire service will give the code to access the throwline.