Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) has issued a reminder for area residents of the dangers near streams, rivers, ponds and lakes this time of year.
"Fluctuations of temperature and precipitation types can increase runoff and contribute to higher water levels and faster flows in local watercourses," said CVC in a public service announcement. "Once rivers and water bodies become ice-covered, periods of rainfall and snow melt can result in the weakening, shifting, and melting of that ice cover, making it unsafe.
CVC urges people to exercise caution and keep family and pets away from the edges of all waterways."
While temperatures have declined since December’s unseasonably warm weather, the local area is experiencing frequent freeze-thaw cycles and winter storms that are bringing wet and mixed precipitation, which is expected to continue throughout the coming winter months.
Residents who live next to watercourses are encouraged to secure loose objects like lawn furniture and water crafts that are in the floodplain in preparation for the spring snow melt and rains that can increase the risk of flooding downstream.
Other tips to help increase safety in the winter months include:
- Keep family and pets away from all bodies of water
- Avoid all recreational activities in or around water, including skating in unsanctioned areas
- Tailor your winter outdoor activities to trails at local parks and conservation areas
- Stormwater ponds/facilities were not built for ice skating. Water levels on these ponds can change due to road salt, snow melt and changing temperatures causing cracks and dangerously thin ice
- Rescuing another person or a pet from ice is dangerous. If you see anyone that has fallen through the ice, call 911 for help immediately.
