FROZEN water can lead to 'tragic consequences'.

That's the message from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS), which is reminding people of the dangers of going on frozen lakes following tragic events over the weekend. 

Three young boys died and another is reportedly in a critical condition after falling through an icy lake in Solihull. 

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Northumberland chief fire officer Paul Hedley said: "This is an absolute tragedy and our thoughts go out to the family and friends of those boys, as well as all the services which have been involved with this very difficult rescue effort. 

"While frozen water can look attractive, as events have shown, it can be an extremely dangerous environment and lead to tragic consequences.

"With Northumberland, like many parts of the country, in the grip of freezing temperatures, ponds, lakes and rivers may well be iced over, and people are being urged not to go on them, however safe they think it might be." 

Key advice includes: 

Teach children not to go onto the ice under any circumstances. 

Don't go onto ice or into water to rescue a dog, move somewhere the dog can climb out and call them towards you. 

Keep dogs on leads when near ice and don't throw sticks or toys onto ice. 

Time your walks to make the most of the daylight; if you need to walk in the evening use well-lit areas or take a route not alongside water. 

When walking alongside water keep back from the edge. 

The Royal Life Saving Society has advice available via https://www.rlss.org.uk/winter-water-safety.

If you see someone in the water or go through ice call 999 immediately.