Virginia State Police are urging the public to stay off frozen ponds, lakes, and waterways as cold conditions continue across the region.

Officials checking ponds found ice approaching, but not exceeding, four inches thick.

Officials say four inches of clear ice is the minimum generally considered safe, and even then, it can be deadly.

Authorities warn conditions are especially dangerous on moving water.

Parts of the James River may appear frozen, but flowing water makes ice unpredictable and unsafe at all times.

Police report an increase in calls involving people, especially juveniles, on frozen waterways, and they’re asking parents to talk with children about the risks.

The safest choice, officials say, is to stay off the ice entirely.

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