News

New Haven, CT, January 26, 2018 – With the onset of unseasonably warm weather and rain, the Regional Water Authority (RWA) is warning the public to never walk, skate or sled on ice-covered reservoirs, and to always observe warning signs posted on watershed land.

“No activity of any kind on the ice is permitted on the RWA’s reservoirs, which are the sources of water for some 430,000 consumers in Greater New Haven,” said Regional Water Authority Police Captain, Sal Nesci. “Since many reservoirs are essentially flooded river valleys with fluctuating water levels, when individuals stand close to the shore, they are standing above iced-over water that can be up to 30 feet deep.” 

Follow these ice safety tips when near bodies of water during this time of year:

• 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 at nine areas in south central Connecticut. All have different features to explore by walking, hiking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing.   

“We want our recreation permit holders to enjoy our watershed lands, but it’s important that people act responsibly, too,” said Nesci.  “Any ice-covering 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.” 

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About the Regional Water Authority

The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA) is a nonprofit corporation 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 260 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 www.rwater.com.