Winter safety

Outdoor skating 

Throughout winter months, skating is prohibited on bodies of water such as stormwater management ponds and channels.

If you see someone fall through ice call 911 immediately. Do not try to go out on to the ice to help them.

For alternative skating options, check out our Neighbourhood Outdoor Rinks or our drop-in skating programs.

Pets

Please keep your pets on a leash when walking near ice-covered water. Pets are not aware of the hidden danger of falling through the ice. If your pet does happen to get loose on the ice, coax it back to shore - do not go after it. If your pet falls through the ice call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to rescue your pet yourself. Milton Fire & Rescue Services will respond with ice rescue equipment and attempt to rescue your pet.

Stormwater management ponds

The Town of Milton does not monitor ice conditions on storm water management ponds. It is dangerous to walk, play or skate on any ice surface that has areas of open water. Stormwater management ponds are unsafe for skating, tobogganing, and ice hockey for a number of reasons:

  • Due to the continuous flow of water in these ponds, the ice that forms in winter is unstable
  • The ice depth varies across the pond’s surface
  • Many ponds collect road runoff that may contain salt, which lowers the freezing temperature of the water

Please stay off stormwater management ponds at all times.

 Cold temperatures

Other ways to protect yourself outdoors this winter:

  • Inform others of your destination and expected time of return
  • Check weather conditions before travelling
  • Dress in layers to protect against hypothermia (decreased body temperature)

Power outages

Prepare for power outages and reduce damage when power is restored: 

  • Unplug electronics and small appliances, except refrigerators and freezers. 

  • Set heating and cooling systems to the lowest setting until power returns. 

  • Leave one light on so you know when power is back. 

  • Use flashlights or battery-powered lights. 

  • If heat is unavailable, wear extra layers and use blankets to stay warm. 

  • Use only indoor-approved space heaters and turn them off when unattended. 

  • Never use fuel-burning devices or generators inside your home or garage; these devices can produce dangerous carbon monoxide. 

To learn more, visit Ontario’s Power outages and blackouts website. 

Summer safety

Fireworks

On Nov. 13, 2023, The Town of Milton updated Fireworks By-law 088-2023 to prohibit the selling, distribution and discharging of consumer fireworks. Display fireworks are permitted provided they meet the requirements outlined in the by-law including:

  • Fireworks to be discharged by a licensed Display Supervisor
  • Provide proof of comprehensive general liability insurance ($5 million)
  • Obtaining a Display Permit issued by the Milton Fire & Rescue Services Fire Chief

For more information, please visit our Fireworks page.

Open air burning

Check out our open air fire safety video to learn what you can do to protect your family and home while having an outdoor fire. You can also review the Open Air By-law for more information.