DPW Environmental Police Urge Public to Avoid Icy Reservoirs

Friday Jan 19th, 2018

Green banner with DPW logo and text "Department of Public Works Press Release"

In the last two weeks, the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) Environmental Police have addressed more than 100 ice-related trespass cases, and is asking that the public stay off ice-covered reservoirs.

Reservoir visitors are urged to be safe when standing or walking near the reservoirs, especially during snow and ice conditions.

The Environmental Police warn that during icy conditions, iced-over bodies of water may look safe, but could be a tragedy waiting to happen. Reservoirs have fluctuating water levels, making any ice covering them unstable and dangerous.

Since reservoirs are flooded river valleys, when individuals stand close to the shore, they are standing above iced-over water that is up to 30 feet deep. Also be aware that snow can mask these unsafe conditions.

Attempting to rescue people from iced-covered water is dangerous for trained professionals. Rescues are even more dangerous for untrained bystanders who may witness someone fall, attempt to help and become victims themselves.

DPW’s Environmental Police provide law enforcement services and protect the public on all Baltimore City water supply lands and reservoirs at Pretty Boy, Loch Raven, and Liberty.

To report people, pets or wildlife that have fallen through the ice dial 911.

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