The community is being reminded by Litchfield Fire Rescue that it is still unsafe to walk, skate, or play around ponds and outdoor waterways. Many ponds have fewer than three inches of ice, which is insufficient to hold a person's weight despite the recent cold. Due to flowing water beneath the surface, in some places, such as spring-fed ponds like Darrah Pond, may have weaker or uneven ice. This time of year, gray ice mixed with snow forms more readily, but it is softer and less stable than black, pure ice. Children should be kept away from frozen ponds until conditions are deemed safe, and parents and other caregivers are advised to talk to them about these dangers. To avoid mishaps, Litchfield Fire Rescue advises locals to be vigilant, avoid dangerous ice, and spread the word.