Maryland Park Service Issues Public Safety Warning for Deep Creek Lake

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McHenry, Md. (January 29, 2009) — The Maryland Park Service advises individuals recreating on Deep Creek Lake to be alert for safety hazards on the lake, particularly at night.

“Snowmobilers, ice fishermen, hikers and cross-country skiers traveling on the lake should exercise caution,” urged Mark Spurrier, Deep Creek Lake Recreation Area Assistant Manager. “Wearing a personal floatation device could prevent a tragedy. If you encounter people, pets or wildlife that have fallen through the ice, call either 911 or the Department of Natural Resources at 1-800-628-9944 for assistance.”

Road salt and abrasives plowed from highway bridges may affect the quality of the ice underneath and unseen snowdrifts can act as ramps and cause sleds and snowmobiles to become airborne leading to a loss of control and accidents. Recent weather patterns have also lead to inconsistent ice depths and cracking in some shallow coves.

Deep Creek Lake is a part of the designated ORV trail system permitting use by registered snowmobiles only. Permits are available by mail or at any of the local state park offices during normal business hours. Snowmobiles may operate at night if equipped with working head and taillights. Access to the lake may be made at Deep Creek Lake State Park or with permission from a private landowner adjacent to the lake.

For further information on ice conditions at Deep Creek Lake, individuals should contact 301-387-5563 during business days or the Discovery Center at 301-387-7067 on weekends.

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January 29, 2009

Contact: Kara Turner 410-260-8018 katurner@dnr.state.md.us

Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 449,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov