With all the snow piles from the recent snowfall the Plainfield Fire Protection District is urging parents to make sure children are not playing inside of snow forts. Snow forts can collapse causing suffocation to anyone trapped inside. Avoid sledding in areas where you may slide out onto the roadway or onto a frozen pond. Sled in designated sledding areas. Please also ensure that children do not play on or near frozen ponds. Don’t go out onto the ice and don’t chase pets that go onto ice. If someone falls through the ice call 9-1-1 to get help. Don’t go out onto the ice to help them, instead throw a rope or use a pole to have them hold onto and try to pull them to shore while waiting for help to arrive. Only go on ice in areas that have been inspected and determined to be able to support weight. Remember there is no such thing as 100% safe ice. Many factors determine whether ice can support weight including the thickness and strength which are impacted by the weather as well as the conditions of the water for example if it is moving or stagnant. With safety in mind everyone can enjoy outdoor winter fun safely. For more information please call the Plainfield Fire Protection District at 815-436-5335 or visit our web site at www.plainfieldfpd.com.