West Fargo first responders warn people to stay off retention ponds

(West Fargo, ND) -- West Fargo first responders are reminding residents to stay off frozen bodies of water.  

The fire department says retention ponds and the Sheyenne River have begun to ice over, causing potential dangers.  

Officials say the strength of the ice on public ponds and rivers is lower than other areas because of a variety of reasons.  

This includes daily temperature changes, water flowing under the ice, and salt water drainage.  

The state's Game and Fish Department says ice less than four inches thick is unsafe and should be avoided.