Dramatic rescue prompts warning over frozen lakes

A DRAMATIC rescue involving two teenagers who plunged through ice on a frozen lake in Cork has prompted gardaí to warn that people are risking their lives by trying to skate on frozen lakes.

The two teenagers were lucky to escape after they plunged through the ice in separate accidents at The Lough in Cork.

The first was an 18-year-old youth who fell into the freezing water when the ice cracked at around 4pm. Emergency services were alerted and the river rescue unit from Cork City Fire Brigade was dispatched.

Third officer and river rescue expert Adrian Spillett said by the time his crew arrived, the teenager, who was dangerously close to becoming hypothermic, had been pulled from the lake. He was treated by HSE ambulance staff at the scene for shock. Mr Spillett said he was lucky to escape with his life.

“Even when we were making our way out people were still walking on the ice.” he said.

A short time later another youth was also dragged from the lake after ice again gave way. The potential for loss of life forced Cork City Council to smash ice on the Lough and also at the Atlantic Pond.

Superintendent Barry McPolin said warning signs had been put up around the lake and people should have heeded them.

“The last thing we want is a fatality. Skating on lakes is very dangerous. We are urging parents to ensure their children do not go on frozen lakes,” said the superintendent.