Police were called to reports of children playing on a frozen canal near Glasgow just days after three kids lost their lives after falling through ice in England.
Officers were called to the Forth and Clyde Canal near John Street in Kirkintilloch around 6.35pm on Tuesday where the children as young as ten were found playing.
Locals had raised concerns about the youngsters on social media with one person urging them to get off the ice. Read more: Childhood pal heartbroken at death of Glasgow rapper who lost cancer battle at 22
Taking to social media, a passerby said: "Do people not see the news... Please if this is your kids currently out on the frozen canal in Kirkintilloch get them home.
"I shouted down to them to get off but didn't get much of a response!!! My heart's in my stomach."
Police officers were able to get the children off the ice and warned them of the dangers of frozen water.
Community Inspector Alan Ferris said: “Around 6.35pm on Tuesday, December 13, we were called to a report of youngsters, possibly as young as 10 years old, playing on ice on an area of the Forth and Clyde Canal near John Street, Kirkintilloch.
“They came off the ice and back onto the canal bank as officers arrived and were given advice on how dangerous their actions could have been.
“It is very tempting at this time of the year to play on ice but I cannot emphasize enough how dangerous this is and I am urging all parents, carers and guardians to make sure all young people are aware of the dangers of frozen water.
“I would also urge everyone to stay away from frozen water. If you see someone in difficulties then call 999 immediately.”
The warning comes after three young boys aged eight, 10 and 11, died after falling through ice on a lake near Solihull, England.
Glasgow City Council previously issued a statement urging locals to not attempt to cross or walk on the Queen's Park pond. Taking to social media, a spokesperson said: "As much as it's tempting, do not skate, attempt to cross, walk or play on ponds, or any frozen bodies of water. No matter how solid it might look, you have no idea how unstable it actually is.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service shared a warning urging people to avoid water amid the drop in temperatures in Scotland.
Area Commander for Prevention and Protection, David Dourley, said: “Following the tragic events of the weekend, our thoughts are very much with the families, friends and local communities at this sad time.
“We strongly urge everyone to please be aware of the dangers of frozen water. We know the ice can look inviting but do not be tempted to walk on ice. It can easily crack and cause a person to fall through.
“Don’t wander too near to the edge, icy conditions could cause you to slip and fall in and don’t be tempted to test how solid the water is.
“Adults should set a good example by staying off the ice and we also ask that parents, carers and guardians ensure children are aware of the dangers of frozen water.
“We don’t want your winter walk to end in tragedy so please avoid going near frozen water when you are out with loved ones and pets.”
Anyone who does get into trouble in frozen water is urged to try conserve their energy by keeping as still as possible while waiting for help.
Emergency services have also warned the public of the dangers of cold-water shock which can be brought about by low temperatures, which can cause breathing difficulties, blood vessels to close, the heart-rate to increase and lead to a heart attack.
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