Hazardous conditions on and around bodies of water

Mar 13, 20242 min read

SINEM CONNOR, Senior Communications Advisor LSRCA

DURHAM/KAWARTHA: Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority is reminding residents of the dangers which exist near bodies of water, particularly around this time of year, and is urging people to keep family and pets away from the edges of all waterways.

Spring is quickly approaching and, with warmer temperatures, people look forward to getting outdoors. Warmer temperatures, however, also usually bring rain, melting snow and shifting ice which can contribute to higher, faster flowing water in watercourses.

The Lake Simcoe watershed has experienced warmer than usual temperatures over the last several weeks. As a result, most of the snow which typically remains on the ground through early spring has melted. However, lakes and waterbodies may still be partially covered in ice, and the ground remains saturated. As temperatures continue to climb, melting ice and potential rain will contribute to higher water levels and increased velocities in local watercourses. Slippery and unstable streambanks and extremely cold water temperatures can also lead to hazardous conditions close to bodies of water.

Be safe this spring and remember the following tips:

Keep family and pets away from the edges of all bodies of water.

Avoid all recreational activities in or around water, especially near ice jams or ice-covered watercourses and waterbodies.

Do not attempt to walk on ice-covered waterbodies or drive through flooded roads or fast-moving water.

If you live close to the water, move objects such as chairs or benches away from the water’s edge, to avoid losing them during potential spring high water.

Avoid walking close to/across riverbanks and ice-covered water, to prevent falling through. Riverbanks can become unstable in the spring due to snowmelt and erosion.

Rescuing another person or a pet from icy water is dangerous. If you see anyone who has fallen through the ice call 911 for help immediately.

For more information, contact your local Conservation Authority. For Durham Region you can contact the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, by calling 905-895-1281. For the Kawartha Lakes Region you can call 705-328-2271.