Be careful around waterways this spring

MARCH 11, 2025 – With warmer weather arriving just in time for March Break, Kawartha Conservation is reminding residents, parents, and children to be cautious around local streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes during the spring thaw. As temperatures rise into the double digits, ice and snow are melting rapidly, increasing risks around waterways.

This winter brought significant snowfall and extended freezing conditions, resulting in widespread ice coverage on lakes and waterbodies. While lakes remain largely ice-covered, some rivers and streams are beginning to open up, with increasing currents making conditions unpredictable. Ice near shorelines, inlets, and outlets can weaken quickly, even if it appears solid.

Stay 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 always check lake ice conditions before venturing onto frozen surfaces
• Never attempt to cross flooded roads or fast-moving water - turn back and stay safe
• Rescuing another person or pet from icy water is extremely dangerous. If you see someone fall through the ice, call 911 immediately for help

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

For more information, contact your local Conservation Authority.