News

NEW HAVEN, CT – As winter weather and frigid temperatures set in throughout south-central Connecticut, the Regional Water Authority (RWA) warns residents that it is never safe to walk, run, skate, sled, ski, or otherwise travel over ice-covered reservoirs. Posted warning signs on watershed land are meant to be strictly observed.

"Frozen bodies of water can be deadly as the top layer of ice can easily give way trapping you under the freezing water. Your body can go into shock from the rapid temperature changes leaving you disoriented and unable to find a way out. Reservoirs in particular present additional dangers due to being far deeper than most lakes or ponds." RWA Recreation Program Specialist, Jeff Yale also reminded the public that "These tragedies can be avoided by simply staying off the ice."

“In order to protect the safety of our customers and the quality of our water, the RWA does not allow activities of any kind on the ice at our reservoirs, which serve as the source of drinking water for some 430,000 consumers in Greater New Haven,” said RWA Police Captain Paul Ruggiero. “Frozen reservoirs can be far more dangerous than a frozen lake. Reservoirs are essentially flooded river valleys with fluctuating water levels, and when people stand close to the shore, they are standing above iced-over water that can be up to 30 feet deep.”

“We want our recreation permit holders to enjoy our watershed lands during Connecticut’s beautiful winter weather, but it’s important that people keep safety in mind,” said Ruggiero. “Any ice on reservoirs is
unstable and dangerous. Falling through thin ice can very quickly become a tragedy, which is why we all must be diligent during this time of year.”

Follow these safety tips when near frozen bodies of water during the winter:
• Obey all posted signs at RWA recreation areas and on watershed property.
• Don’t test the thickness of the ice; it’s easy to slip from the bank and fall through.
• Beware of ice covered with snow. Snow can insulate ice and keep it from freezing. It can also mask unsafe conditions like hidden cracks and other weak spots.
• Parents should always closely watch and supervise their children and explain the dangers of playing on frozen reservoirs and lakes.

The winter months offer many unique opportunities for RWA Recreation Permit holders in nine areas in south-central Connecticut. All have different features to explore by walking, hiking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing while taking in the sights at these beautiful, pristine properties from which the region’s drinking water is sourced. Permit holders are welcome to enjoy four seasons of outdoor recreation as part of the Claire C. Bennitt Recreation Program by following all RWA posted signs along with standing rules and regulations.

About the Regional Water Authority
Trusted since 1849, the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA) is a nonprofit political subdivision that delivers water for life by providing high-quality water and services to almost 430,000 people in 15 cities and towns throughout Greater New Haven. As a conscious business, the RWA acts as a responsible steward of the environment by protecting the more than 27,000 acres of watershed land it owns and promoting sustainable practices. Our more than 270 employees work toward our vision of being an innovative water utility that sustains life, strengthens communities, and protects natural resources for future generations. For more information on the RWA, please visit rwater.com.