​Winter Safety Message: Avoid Waterways, Target Trails

Hazardous conditions on and around bodies of water

​Newmarket, ON - December 21, 2020 – Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) is reminding residents of the dangers that exist near bodies of water and urges people to keep family and pets away from the edges of all waterways. 

Winter is now here but we are experiencing frequent freeze-thaw cycles. Any accumulated snow and ice will periodically melt and refreeze, causing slippery and unstable areas around water. Higher water levels with faster flowing, extremely cold water can lead to very hazardous and dangerous conditions. Ice conditions can vary drastically. 

There's one easy way to enjoy the outdoors this time of the year – avoid waterways altogether. At Conservation Areas and municipal parks, official trails have been created with your safety in mind. Use these trails and still get some fresh air safely. Have this conversation with your l​oved ones. 

Be safe by following these tips:

• Keep family and pets away from the edges of all bodies of water
• Avoid all recreational activities in or around water, including skating or ice fishing
• Stay on the official trails at Ontario's Conservation Areas to enjoy the outdoors safety 

Stay up to date on flood or conservation area conditions by following us on social media:​ 

• Facebook - lakesimcoeconservation   
• Twitter - @LSRCA
  
• Instagram - @lakesimcoeconservation