Police have slammed teenage urban explorers for their “stupidity” after sparking a major rescue operation when trespassing into knee-deep mud in a rain-soaked quarry. The five teens had sneaked into the Brick Works quarry on Chequer Lane, Skelmersdale, in Lancashire, on Friday evening, February 6, 2026. 

But they were forced to dial 999 for emergency aid when two of the teens got stuck in the mud and were unable to move as heavy downpours set in. The major operation saw a total of five ambulances, four police cars and five fire engines sent to save the teenagers who were “extremely cold” and suffered minor injuries.

Police said its officers waded through “thick, sticky mud”, climbed a wall and crawled under fencing to reach the teenagers.

Afterwards, Lancashire Police criticised the teenagers for ultimately diverting a huge number of emergency resources like life-saving paramedic crews, fire and rescue teams and officers who could have attended crime incidents.

The force said: “Lancashire Police, alongside colleagues from North West Ambulance and Lancashire Fire and Rescue (were) called to the Brick Works quarry on Chequer Lane, Skelmersdale due to concerns for a group of teenagers. 

“They thought it would be a good idea to trespass into the quarry area and ultimately became stuck in the mud.

“This put a significant strain on emergency services with 4 police patrols, 5 fire pumps and 5 ambulances attending to save the teenagers from being stuck in the mud.

“It was pitch black, the weather last night was very cold and it was raining heavily. The rescued teens, although muddy and extremely cold, have suffered minor injuries.

“Due to the weather and the temperature amongst other dangers within the quarry the outcome of this could have been much worse especially if the teenagers had not had a mobile phone.”

They added: “Due to the remote location and time of day, nobody would have known they were stuck. I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the dangers within these areas.

“Although it might seem like a good idea to explore, there are numerous dangers often hidden within these areas such as quick sinking mud, sheer drops, and dangerous equipment.

“Not to mention the strain and cost on the emergency services who have had to be diverted away from other incidents due to the stupidity of a small number of people.

“Please ensure you stay away from these areas and avoid putting yourself in any unnecessary danger. Take care and stay safe.”

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) confirmed that fire engines from Skelmersdale, Ormskirk, Penwortham, Darwen and Preston, as well as the drone from Lancashire Fire and Rescue, attended the incident. 

They said crews rescued two casualties from the mud and were at the scene for approximately two hours. 

On Facebook, after Ormskirk and Rural West Lancs Police posted, social media users blasted the teens for wasting vital resources. 

Lisa Johnson wrote: “What a waste of resources. Parents really need to know what their kids are up to but well done to all involved in the rescue.” 

Will Lomas penned: “I hope no one was in urgent need of one of those ambulances. Disgrace to have FIVE ambulances tied up.” 

But Jenni Davies defended the kids, explaining: “Are the kids being stuck not classed as an emergency.

“How can that be a waste of resources when the kids needed help the emergency services came and helped them! How can anyone say who is more deserving of an ambulance! They are kids that made a mistake!”