CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - Winter starts this weekend, and with colder temperatures in the forecast you might be looking to go out on the ice. We've had some mild weather this week but temperatures have been getting down below freezing at night and some ice has started to form on some area's lakes and ponds. But it isn't safe to go out on. Always keep off of ice that is 2 inches or less thick. You can ice fish when the ice is at least 4 inches thick. Ice 5 to 6 inches thick will support snowmobiles and ATVs, and 8 to 12 inches of ice will hold small cars and trucks. The ice needs to be 12 to 15 inches thick to support medium-sized trucks. Currents can create holes in the ice and can make ice thickness unpredictable. Because of these factors, ice can never be considered completely safe. Local News Headlines Advocacy groups threaten lawsuit for the legislature Proposed lithium battery energy storage facility in Westfield sparks concerns from city councilors Officials warn of holiday tree and candle fire risks Experts warn ice is not yet safe for winter activities WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.