KATARINA ZEPPIERI, LSRCA
NORTH DURHAM/KAWARTHA LAKES: Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority is reminding residents of the dangers 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.
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.
With warmer weather comes melting snow and potential rain, which will contribute to shifting ice and higher faster-flowing water 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. 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. Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority can be reached at 905-895-1281 or the Kawartha Conservation Authority at 705-328-2271.
It is the mission of the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority to collaborate to protect and restore the Lake Simcoe watershed with innovative research, policy and action.