Winter Storm Pond Safety Reminders

As winter temperatures fluctuate, The City of Calgary is reminding residents that storm ponds, rivers, the Glenmore Reservoir, and waterways are not safe for winter activities. Ice conditions can change quickly and are often unpredictable, even during long cold periods.

Calgary has more than 350 storm ponds designed to manage flooding and improve stormwater quality before it returns to our rivers. These ponds are not recreational spaces. Because water is constantly moving and often carries sediment and roadway runoff, the ice can weaken without warning and should never be considered safe to walk or skate on.

Ice Safety Tips  

• Never walk, skate, or play on storm ponds: Keep yourself, children and pets at a safe distance by staying on pathways.

• Watch for signs: Obey posted signs located near storm ponds and other bodies of water to stay and play safe.

• Play and skate where it's safe: There are designated locations around the city that are safe for winter fun! See what’s near you at calgary.ca/winteractivities and calgary.ca/rinks

• If you see activity on a storm pond call 3-1-1: Information about where the activity is happening on storm ponds helps us focus our public awareness and outreach.

• If you see a person or animal falling through the ice, call 9-1-1: Do not enter the water and attempt a rescue. Instead, encourage them to kick and pull themselves up onto the ice and roll, rather than walk towards the edge.

  • If they cannot get themselves out of the water, from the shore, reach or throw an aid such as a hockey stick, or rope.

  • Keep your eyes on them to provide 9-1-1 and fire crews with their exact location

Learn more about storm pond and winter ice safety at calgary.ca/stormpondsafety.