Stormwater Safety

Stormwater ponds and waterways in the City of Burlington can be dangerous in the winter months and during torrential rainstorms and flooding events.

Always stay off frozen stormwater ponds. No matter how safe ice may seem, changing temperatures and water levels combined with salt from road runoff can create unstable ice. Keep family members and pets away from bodies of water and avoid recreational activities around them.

Areas with frozen lakes, ponds and waterways can be beautiful places to visit during the winter months, but there is no way of knowing whether this ice is safe to go on. In addition to ice thickness being unpredictable, winter creates other hazardous water conditions, such as:

• Extremely cold water temperatures, which can cause shock within minutes
• Faster flowing waterways due to increased runoff
• Higher water levels due to increased runoff
• Slippery and unstable stream banks

View the Lifesaving Society's Cold Water and Ice Safety tips to learn how to prevent accidents what to do if you fall in cold water.

Stormwater ponds and waterways can become particularly hazardous during heavy rain and flooding. These bodies of water are designed to manage runoff and prevent flooding but can pose significant risks:

• Unpredictable Water Levels: Heavy rainfall can cause rapid changes in water levels, making ponds and streams unpredictable and dangerous.
• Strong Currents: Increased runoff can lead to faster-flowing water, creating strong currents that are hazardous for anyone nearby.
• Contaminated Water: Floodwaters often carry contaminants from roads, yards, and sewers, making the water unsafe for contact.
• Debris: Flooding can cause debris to enter waterways, posing additional risks for injury or entrapment.