Keep off frozen ponds, streams, Newmarket warns

Town reminds residents the frozen bodies of water not safe for skating, play

Newmarkettoday.ca
Nov. 21, 2022
Joseph Quigley

The Town of Newmarket is reminding residents to keep off frozen lakes, rivers, streams and ponds as temperatures drop this week.

The town issued a notice regarding bodies of water such as Fairy Lake, the Holland River and stormwater ponds. It is warning residents that even as they freeze over, the waters are not safe for use.

“The ponds may look safe, but it’s what’s below the surface that makes them different from regular ponds,” the town said of stormwater ponds. “As a result, water flow and water levels can fluctuate quickly without warning.”

A staff report last January noted there were 12 complaints relating to the ponds in 2021, four of which were about them getting used for winter recreation. The town has placed warning signs at its ponds to deter use.

“Please take extra caution around all bodies of water and remind children to not play in the area,” the town said.

Meanwhile, the outdoor community rink at Riverwalk Commons has opened for the season.