WORRIED householders say children are risking their lives by running on to a frozen pond in Ardler.
Tayside Police have received numerous calls from concerned homeowners who spotted youngsters, some primary school age, playing on the large ice-covered surface off Dalmahoy Drive and Turnberry Avenue.
It was at the same location almost 10 years ago when an eight-year-old child fell through the ice into freezing water.
Keen to avoid a repeat of this accident, police officers are visiting local primary schools to warn pupils of the dangers.
The move has been welcomed by Strathmartine councillor Kevin Keenan, who is worried at the recent reports.
“Any kind of thin ice and someone could go through,” Labour’s group leader said.
“The water temperature is such that the chance of survival is not great.
“I’m not sure how deep the water is but there are other ponds within the Strathmartine area and it is important schoolchildren realise the dangers.
“If someone went walking out on to the ice which they thought could hold their weight and then found out it couldn’t, then the consequences would be extreme.”
Police advise people to stay off frozen lochs, ponds and waterways as there can be no guarantee as to the thickness of the ice, or the weight it is capable of supporting.
They also urge parents to remind their children about the inherent dangers.
Inspector Maggie Pettigrew said: “We have received a number of calls from concerned members of the public regarding youths playing on the ice on various ponds throughout Tayside.
“Ice on open water is extremely dangerous and unpredictable and we would urge people not to walk on frozen ponds.”
If someone falls through the ice police say you should not attempt to rescue them on your own but call the emergency services.
She said while waiting for help to arrive people can try to find something to extend your reach, such as a rope, pole or branch.
Throw the object out and ensure you are stable on the bank either by lying down or having someone hold on to you, pull them in.
Alternatively, try finding an object that will float and push that out to them.
cmcmanamon@thecourier.co.uk