THE DANGERS OF ICE DAMAGE ON DOCKS Dear Dock Owner, In response to the frequently asked question: ‘’can we leave our docks in the water for the winter’’? … There’s really no clear cut answer, however we strongly recommend taking them out. It’s not the freezing of the water that can damage your dock and floats; it’s the actual ice movement. So as a general rule, wherever lakes or rivers freeze over, it is strongly suggested that all docks be removed from all lakes and rivers, for the winter.