Conservation Halton is reminding residents about the dangers that can exist near streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes at this time of year.
Residents are asked to keep themselves, family members and pets away from the edges of all waterways.
The warning says that while temperatures have been above seasonal so far, we can expect to experience frequent freeze-thaw cycles throughout the coming winter months. Fluctuations of temperature and precipitation types can increase runoff and contribute to higher water levels and faster flows in local watercourses. Once rivers and water bodies become ice-covered, periods of rainfall and snowmelt can result in the weakening, shifting, and melting of that ice cover, making it unsafe.
Other hazardous conditions, such as ice jams, can also be increased by frequent freeze-thaw cycles or a sudden warm-up causing significant ice and snowmelt. Additionally, slippery and unstable streambanks combined with extremely cold water temperatures can lead to dangerous conditions next to any type of water body during the winter months.
Be safe this winter and remember the following:
- Keep family members and pets away from riverbanks and edges of all water bodies, even if the surface appears to be ice-covered.
- Do not attempt to drive or walk on iced-covered water bodies. Always obey any posted safety signage.
- Avoid all recreational activities in or around water, especially near ice jams or ice-covered water bodies, unless at an officially designated municipal facility.
- Stormwater ponds/facilities were not built for ice skating. Water levels on these ponds can change due to road salt, snowmelt and changing temperatures causing cracks and dangerously thin ice.
- Beware of thin ice that may develop around dams. Dam operators often lower water levels in reservoirs during winter and spring.
- Rescuing another person or a pet from ice is dangerous. If you see anyone who has fallen through the ice, call 911 for help immediately.
For more information on natural hazards, click here.
For more information about regional water levels and seasonal changes, contact Conservation Halton at (905) 336-1158.
