Be extra cautious around streams and ponds this winter

DECEMBER 21, 2020 – Kawartha Conservation reminds residents of dangers that can exist near streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes around this time of year and urges people to keep family and pets away from the edges of all waterways.

With more and more families turning to nature for exercise, fresh air and a great way to spend time with family, while social distancing, we want to remind all nature seekers to be extremely cautious when outside this winter. We ask that you “Target Trails and Steer clear of Streams.”

Although temperatures have declined since November’s unseasonably warm days, we are experiencing frequent freeze-thaw cycles, resulting in the melting of accumulated snow and extremally unstable ice cover, where it exists.

The runoff creates hazardous conditions near all waterways by contributing to higher water levels and increased velocities in local rivers and streams. As well, slippery and unstable stream banks and extremely cold water temperatures can also lead to very hazardous and dangerous conditions close to any body of water.

Be safe this winter and remember the following tips:

For more information, contact your local Conservation Authority.