In determining whether or not a dam or reservoir or proposed dam or reservoir constitutes or would constitute a danger to life or property, the department shall take into consideration the possibility that the dam or reservoir might be endangered by seepage, earth movement, or other conditions which exist or which might occur in any area in the vicinity of the dam or reservoir. Whenever the department deems that any such condition endangers a dam or reservoir, it shall order the owner to take such action as the department determines to be necessary to remove the resultant danger to life and property.