City of Hamilton reminding public to exercise extreme caution in waterfall areas

HAMILTON, ON - June 15, 2017 -  The City of Hamilton is taking proactive measures to reduce traffic and parking-related issues around the city’s waterfall areas with enhanced parking enforcement that will be continued this weekend. With 600 tickets issued to date since mid-April, illegally parked cars may also be towed.

Increased parking enforcement starting this weekend

The rationale for this measure is due to the high number of vehicles still found parking adjacent to the waterfalls and in surrounding neighbourhoods. Illegally parked cars may also impede emergency vehicles and crews trying to access waterfall areas when a rescue is required.

Safety reminders to the public

The public are reminded to:

• park in designated areas only
• take advantage of the weekend/holiday shuttle provided at Spencer Gorge/Webster Falls (367 Highway 5 West at Mizener’s Antiques and Fleamarket)
• enjoy these beautiful, natural areas responsibly
• stick to paths, exercise extreme caution, and stay well back from slopes, edges and other fall or slipping hazards
• keep children and pets close
• respect posted signage, and do not climb or otherwise bypass fencing – both for your own safety and for the environmental health of the areas

Some members of the public have also been found crossing active CN rail tracks to access waterfall areas and vistas. Crossing rail tracks is prohibited and illegal and a Hamilton CN Rail Officer is regularly patrolling these areas. Last year, there were over 200 accidents as a result of trespassing and crossing over railways in Canada – resulting in dozens of deaths.

“We are asking for the public’s help to keep the roadways free and clear so that Hamilton Fire is able to continue to respond when we are needed in a timely manner.” - David Cunliffe, Fire Chief, Hamilton Fire Department

“With Hamilton being home to over 100 waterfalls, we welcome residents and visitors to enjoy these areas safely. I am urging the public to be aware of their surroundings and stay only in designated viewing areas.” - Fred Eisenberger, Mayor, City of Hamilton 

Additional resources

• Visit hamilton.ca/waterfall-safety for safety tips
• Video: Safely Enjoy Hamilton’s Waterfalls
• Vist Hamilton Conservation Authority website for Waterfall shuttle FAQs