West Fargo residents advised to stay away from iced-over retention ponds and Sheyenne River

Officials in West Fargo are advising residents to stay away from iced-over retention ponds and the Sheyenne River.

According to Fire Chief Dan Fuller, water running beneath the ice, temperature variations, salt water drainage, and sump pumps placed throughout retention ponds reduce the integrity of the ice on retention ponds and rivers. Snow, he claims, may insulate the ice, affecting ice development and hiding signals of unsafe ice.

“The best way to stay safe is to stay off West Fargo’s retention ponds and the Sheyenne River in the winter. Retention ponds and the Sheyenne River should never be walked on or used for recreational activities after they ice over. Due to constantly changing factors, bodies of water in the city are not safe to go on and are not meant for recreational activities,” Police Chief Denis Otterness said.

If someone falls through the ice, contact 911 as soon as possible. To respond safely to these scenarios, firefighters have specific equipment and training.