AS freezing weather and floods hit West Yorkshire, firefighters are warning people to be aware of the extra dangers.

People across the region are facing more flooding, rain and freezing weather over the next few days. The Environment Agency has issued two flood alerts for the county and fire chiefs are warning that icy water and floods could be a lethal combination.

It comes as the Met Office puts a yellow weather warning in place as the risk of snow and hail showers increase leading to icy conditions and disruption to transport.

Dave Walton, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s deputy chief fire officer, said: “We see time and again that getting too close to water at this time of year can have horrific consequences.

“Not only are rivers full and fast flowing, but they are freezing cold and the banks are slippery and dangerous.

“It is easy to underestimate how dangerous being close to rivers, lakes and canals can be, but the water is so cold that it the shock of it can really take your breath away and make your muscles to cramp. This means it’s very difficult for you to stay afloat. Also, if water does freeze over we are urging people not to try and walk on it, under any circumstances.”

 

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