Winter safety

Areas with frozen lakes, ponds, channels and reservoirs can be beautiful places to visit during the winter months but can be dangerous. All too often, people risk their lives by venturing onto frozen water. It’s important to be aware of the dangers and risks associated with water and ice at this time of year.

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)

Summer safety

Fireworks and open air fires can be expected during the warmer months while residents spend time in the outdoors. Though these activities are fun and enjoyable, each comes with its own set of risks and hazards. It is important to understand and follow safety precautions and Town by-laws when enjoying an open air fire or fireworks display.

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.