The York Regional Police Marine Unit would like to remind residents of the importance of staying safe as a result of the milder weather we have been experiencing the last couple of days. Through awareness, enforcement and public education, police are warning citizens to be diligent and stay off the ice as milder weather continues.

As a result of the recent milder weather, open water is now present in parts of Lake Simcoe and surrounding rivers and streams. York Regional Police is warning the public that lakes and streams are not frozen and NOT SAFE. Watch for pressure cracks, open bodies of water and ice flows as these are sure signs ice is not safe and should be avoided.

Those residents who enjoy ice fishing are reminded that all fishing huts must be removed from Lake Simcoe by midnight on March 15, 2009. York Regional Police and the Ministry of Natural Resources will be enforcing this regulation. Anglers are reminded to remove all personal belongings and litter when removing their ice hut.

Citizens are also being warned that warmer temperatures and melting snow and ice means water levels in lakes, rivers and streams are rising, running fast and are potential dangers to residents, especially children.

Parents are reminded to ensure their children’s safety by keeping them away from fast-flowing rivers and streams. As the weather warms up, residents are also reminded the ice on Lake Simcoe is not safe.

Remember no ice or body of water is ever completely safe. Any individual enjoying recreational activities near a body of water must make a personal decision to do so, realizing that there is a degree of risk associated with this choice. It is crucial that citizens take individual responsibility in evaluating the dangers of any recreational activity. If you make smart, educated choices on safety, accidents can be prevented.

Following these safety tips can help keep you safe:

-Wear proper floatation attire
-Don’t fish or snowmobile alone
-Tell someone about your plans and specifically where you are going.
-Know the condition of the ice before you go out and take into consideration the recent changes the weather may have had on the ice
-Be suspicious of gray, dark or porous spots in the ice as these may be soft areas. Ice is generally strongest where it is hard and blue

York Regional Police reminds the public there are inherent risks when doing activities in an uncontrolled and unpredictable natural setting. If you make smart, educated choices on safety, accidents can be prevented.

For more information and safety tips, contact the York Regional Police Marine Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext 7321.