Hazardous conditions on and around bodies of water
Lake Simcoe watershed – March 8, 2024 – Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority 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.
The Lake Simcoe watershed has experienced warmer than usual temperatures over the last several weeks. As a result, most of the snow that typically remains on the ground through early spring has melted. However, lakes and waterbodies may still be partially covered in ice and the ground remains saturated. As temperatures continue to climb, melting ice and potential rain will contribute to higher water levels and increased velocities 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. Riverbanks 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 that has fallen through the ice call 911 for help immediately.
For more information, contact your local Conservation Authority.
- Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (905) 895-1281
- Toronto and 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
Stay up to date on Lake Simcoe watershed conditions by following us on social media:
- Facebook – lakesimcoeconservation
- Instagram – @lakesimcoeconservation
- X – @LSRCA
- Media Room – https://lsrca.on.ca/index.php/about-us/media-room/
The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority’s mission is to collaborate to protect and restore the Lake Simcoe watershed with innovative research, policy, and action.