Trafford firefighters urge safety in the snow and ice (From Messenger Newspapers)

Trafford firefighters urge safety in the snow and ice

3:00pm Tuesday 22nd January 2013 in News

SNOW and freezing temperatures did not stop Trafford firefighters from distributing posters across the borough, warning people of the dangers of ice and wintry weather.

The main message Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) firefighters and community fire safety staff were trying to convey: was do not step onto ice and frozen water.

Sale Fire Station manager, Paul Duggan, said: “With snow and ice forecast we went round open water sites in Trafford putting up posters to make people aware of the risks associated with ice.

“We’d already sent posters to local schools to raise awareness with children so crews and Community Safety Advisors (CSAs) were going round putting up the posters on trees and areas where there’s a potential risk.”

The service also wants to warn people of the dangers of trying to rescue their dogs from ice, as more than half of all ice-related drownings involve people trying to rescue their pets.

A GMFRS spokesman advised that if residents do see a person or animal in trouble in icy water, they should stay on the bank and phone 999.

For further winter safety advice, visit manchesterfire.gov.uk/fire_safety_advice/seasonal_safety/winter_safety.aspx.