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City warns of kids’ makeshift crossing at creek

School children have been crossing the freezing waters of Joseph Creek in Kinsmen Park balanced on a single two-by-four.
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The makeshift bridge that was created by local children out of orange barriers on Joseph Creek. The City of Cranbrook is asking parents to educate their children about the potential dangers of crossing a fast moving creek. The barriers have since been removed by the city.

School children have been crossing the freezing waters of Joseph Creek in Kinsmen Park balanced on a single two-by-four.

The city removed the third bridge in Kinsmen Park in mid-October and blocked the path with large concrete barricades.

But since then, children have moved orange wooden barricades placed at the site by the city and constructed a makeshift bridge across the creek, said Chris Zettel, corporate communications officer for the City of Cranbrook.

"We see this as a very serious issue when it comes to the safety of our kids," said Zettel. "I strongly encourage parents to explain to your kids the potential dangers of rivers and streams, especially this time of the year.

"The water is extremely cold and the potential exists for thin ice to form, which creates many dangers for kids who are unaware. We really want everyone to be safe."

The city has removed the makeshift bridge and says a new bridge should be complete by the end of the year.