Firefighters investigate after footprints are spotted in the ice on Lichfield’s Stowe Pool

Firefighters have been searching Stowe Pool in Lichfield after footprints were spotted on the ice.

They were called out on December 3 after a ranger had spotted the marks heading out before stopping around 15-foot onto the ice.

There had been fears that someone had fallen through, however a series of checks has revealed no signs of anyone being in the water.

However, the footprints did show that someone had walked out onto the ice and firefighters are warning people not to risk stepping out onto frozen pools.

Ian Sloss from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said:

“We’ve already seen a number of incidents across Staffordshire involving pets on the ice and as the weekend approaches the worry is that children will see frozen lakes as playgrounds. At the moment the water in lakes and ponds is of a dangerously low temperature and if people or pets fall through the ice they will quickly get into difficulty because the cold water is a real shock to the system.

“Our Firefighters have equipment to deal with this type of incident and Newcastle and Tamworth both have water rescue units, which include inflatable walkways for use on ice. However this shouldn’t detract from the point that people shouldn’t risk their lives by playing on the ice.

“Also if you see someone, or a pet, fall through the ice and get into difficulty, do not risk yourself by trying to rescue them, instead ring 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service immediately.”