CENTRE WELLINGTON – Centre Wellington Council has approved the Winter Activities Risk Management Program.
The program aims to ensure the community can safely participate in winter activities while effectively managing associated risks.
Last year, in response to concerns raised regarding the health and safety of residents using township parks for tobogganing, “No Tobogganing” signs were installed at a few parks in Fergus and Elora to mitigate potential risks.
Locations assessed by the Township’s insurance provider included:
- Ferrier Park – 585 Elora Street, Fergus
- Foote Park – 12 Patrick Boulevard, Fergus
- Southridge Park – 3323 Stafford Street, Elora
In a report, the township says the temporary action allowed staff to coordinate with its insurance provider and conduct a comprehensive risk assessment of designated tobogganing hills and outdoor ice rinks in Centre Wellington.
At Monday’s council meeting, Lucas Rogerson, Manager of Parks, said three parks were looked at as part of the risk management program.
Rogerson says staff will implement those risk management measures this year at the tobogan hills, including:
- Installation of straw bales
- Spray paint straw bales
- Installation of signage
- Installation of snow fencing
In addition, there will be an outdoor ice rink setup and maintenance guidelines across the township, this will include:
- Distribution of required equipment.
- Installation of necessary signage at the site.
- Detailed review of maintenance and inspection protocols with volunteers.
The report says volunteer communication will be released in October
Councillor Jennifer Adams was in support of the program.
The program will be covered through the park’s budget in the amount of $3,500.
You can find the full report here.
