​​Spring Safety Message: Be Careful Around Waterways

Hazardous conditions on and around bodies of water

Newmarket - March 6, 2019 – Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) is reminding residents of the dangers that exist near bodies of water, particularly around this time of year, and urges 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.

Although we have experienced a few thaws this winter, the snow cover that is currently observed throughout the Lake Simcoe watershed is typical for the beginning of March. The ground remains frozen and local rivers, streams and lakes are mostly covered in ice. 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 streambanks and extremely cold water temperatures can also lead to very hazardous and dangerous conditions close to any body 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
• Where you can, move objects such as chairs or benches away from the water's edge to avoid losing them during the spring flood

For more information, contact your local Conservation Authority.

• Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (905) 895-1281
• Toronto & Region Conservation Authority (416) 661-6514
• Conservation Halton (905) 336-1158
• Credit Valley Conservation (905) 670-1615
• Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (905) 579-0411
• Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (905) 885-8173
• Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority  (705) 424-1479
• Kawartha Conservation  (705) 328-2271