Hazardous conditions on<br>and around bodies of water

SUE JAGMINAS, Senior Communications Advisor, LSRSA

Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRSA) 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.

There is still a significant amount of snow throughout the Lake Simcoe watershed. The ground remains frozen and local rivers, streams and lakes may be partially covered in ice. As stated above, with warmer weather, comes melting snow and potential rain which will contribute to higher water levels and increased velocities in local watercourses. As well, slippery and unstable stream-banks 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 water-bodies.

Do not attempt to walk on ice-covered water-bodies 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. River banks 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:

the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority, at (905) 579-0411, or the Kawartha Conservation, at (705) 328-2271.

It is the mission of Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority to collaborate, in order to protect and restore the Lake Simcoe watershed with innovative research, policy and action.

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