New Brunswick EMO is urging people to stay off of and away from waterways for the next little while.
The warning comes as the Saint John River is forecast to reach flood stage in many communities over the next few days.
Spokesperson Geoffrey Downey says this is not the time of year to think about boating, kayaking, or other water activities.
“The water is moving incredibly fast, there’s debris in it, there’s ice,” said Downey.
Avoid boating, kayaking or other water activities this time of year as currents are strong and may carry debris. As well, people should stay away from the edge of the river while walking.
— Government of NB (@Gov_NB) April 18, 2019
Downey said people who go on the water this time of year are putting themselves at risk and potentially endangering the lives of first responders.
Emergency officials are also asking people who live near waterways to consider moving their belongings to higher ground.