POLICE are urging parents to ensure their children know of the dangers of playing on frozen waterways.

GMP issued the warning following the tragic deaths of three boys, aged 11, 10, and 8, who fell through an icy lake in Solihull on Sunday, December 11.

Despite the case hitting national news, officers stated they have had reports of children playing on ice-covered ponds and lakes in and around Leigh.

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As the cold temperatures have caused lakes and ponds to freeze over, they urged parents to inform their children of the life-risking dangers that come with being on frozen waterways.

A Greater Manchester spokesperson said: "Despite the recent tragic incident in Solihull reports are still coming in of children playing on ice-covered ponds [and] lakes.

"It may seem obvious but please tell your children not to enter ice covered stretches of water.

"It's not just the risk of drowning if the ice breaks but also the health dangers of being submerged in freezing cold water."

Following the tragic events in Solihull, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) have also emphasised the dangers of going onto frozen waterways

In a statement, the GMFRS said: "Going onto frozen ponds, reservoirs, lakes and canals is dangerous and can have fatal results.

"It might be tempting to walk or play on the frozen water but the ice can easily break. 

"The temperature of the water is cold enough to take your breath away and lead to drowning.

"Never venture onto frozen water. Even if it appears thick from the bank, it becomes thinner very quickly. 

"Our message is simple – stay safe, stay off the ice."

For guidance on staying safe near the water in winter please see this guidance from the Royal Life Saving Society UK.