Be careful around waterways this spring

MARCH 15, 2024 - With warmer weather arriving as we head into the middle of March, Kawartha Conservation is reminding residents, parents and children of the dangers that exist around local streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes during the spring breakup and urges people to keep family and pets away from all streams and rivers, and to make sure lake ice conditions are safe.

Our watershed has experienced a winter with mixed temperatures, and more recently, daytime temperatures well above freezing. Runoff caused by rain and ice melt over the past few weeks has been gradual, with water levels and flows in local rivers and streams remaining low. Many streams and rivers have remained unfrozen through most of the winter, and therefore any ice that has formed in these areas is likely unsafe. 

Be safe this spring by remembering the following tips:

• Keep family and pets away from all moving water
• Supervise children in your care while outdoors 
• Avoid all recreational activities in or around streams and rivers and check lake ice conditions prior to going onto any lakes
• Always stay off closed roads. If you do come near flooded roads or fast-moving water, do not attempt to drive or walk through the current.
• 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

Kawartha Conservation will continue monitoring stream conditions and issuing flood messages when necessary. 

For more information, contact your local Conservation Authority.