The message was issued after an incident when South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue (SYFR) were called to a lake in Rotherham after a report of people on a frozen lake.

Head of Communities and Youth Engagement for SYFR Mark Wilkinson said: "Winter can be a dangerous time for water safety, with frozen waterways and towpaths a particular hazard to people of all ages.

"The fire service is often called to rescue people from waterways at this time of year.

"We would urge people to heed the warnings and stay away from all frozen water and never allow children near frozen waterways.

"Parents and carers should make sure they know the whereabouts of their children and make sure they are not planning to visit the areas where water is around."

SYFR offers the following safety advice to people using and going near waterways this winter.

1. Obey warning notices. Don't interfere with safety equipment or life buoys, or damage warning notices.

2. Children should never go boating, exploring or fishing near water alone, always go into the countryside in a group, and always tell your parents where you are going.

3. Avoid locks and weirs, they may have dangerous currents. Also, take care around banks – they may be slippery or crumbly.

4. Keep off all frozen water. Never dare someone to walk onto the ice.

5. Never go onto the ice to help someone who has fallen in. Always call for help.

6. Don't send your pet onto the ice.

7. Always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid when boating, sailing or canoeing.

8. Never leave small children unsupervised near open water. They should always have an adult present for water activities.

9. Learn water safety, rescue and first aid skills.

10. Remember both water and ice are dangerous.