Settlement Canyon Reservoir closed to public after attempts to warn of ice danger
Jan 20, 2025, 9:05 PM
Settlement Canyon Reservoir in Tooele County is pictured on. (Kristin Murphy/Deseret News)
(Kristin Murphy/Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY — Settlement Canyon Reservoir was closed to the public on Jan. 20 due to safety concerns.
The announcement was made by Settlement Canyon Irrigation Company via Facebook on Monday morning.
“This wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s one we feel necessary to keep everyone safe,” Settlement Canyon Irrigation Company wrote in the post.
Although the company has worked to monitor conditions and inform the public about safety issues, they said they have not been able to keep people off the ice.
Last January, a 20-year-old deputy with the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office died after he fell through the ice into dangerously cold water. He was trying to rescue a woman who had fallen through.
The tragedy wasn’t the first to occur at Settlement Canyon Reservoir. In 2023, KSL TV reported that a 14-year-old boy also died after falling through the ice.
Cottleville Fire District, an agency in St. Charles, Missouri, said cold water can carry heat away from a body 25 times faster than air of the same temperature. Within minutes of falling through ice, a victim’s risk of drowning increases as their body loses range of motion.
Settlement Canyon Irrigation Company said they do not want to see any more people die in the frigid lake waters, writing “Your safety means everything to us, and we appreciate your understanding as we take this step to protect our community.”
The company said the closure is not permanent. Updates will be posted to the company’s Facebook account.
What to do if someone falls through ice
The Utah Division of Natural Resources website provided advice for remaining safe around ice.
First, the DNR recommended going with a partner if you choose to venture out onto ice. Rescuing yourself is very difficult without help.
Always carry rescue gear when you go out. Ice picks and rope can be used to rescue victims during emergencies. Wearing a life jacket at all times is also advised.
If someone you are with falls into the ice, the DNR says you should not go into the water. Getting too close can lead to additional people falling in, creating an even more dangerous situation.
Related: Police release identity of man who died at Settlement Canyon Reservoir
