SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) _ The cold temperatures this month continue to cause area rivers and ponds to freeze over. If you don't know how thick the ice is then you should stay off of it. The stretch of frigid winter weather we've been having this month has allowed ice to form on area rivers and ponds. Freezing temps keep ice on rivers and ponds in MA 22News Storm Team Meteorologist Chris Bouzakis said, "For the ice to form you need multiple days and multiple nights below freezing it just doesn't happen in a day or two we're talking about a week or two stretch of temperatures that are only in the 20s or lower if you want the ice to thicken up fast and that's what we've been dealing with." It's important to know just how thick that ice is before you go out on it. Always remember to keep off the 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 cars and small trucks. The ice needs to be 12 to 15 inches thick to support medium-sized trucks. Some cities and towns measure the ice thickness. But on bodies of moving water like the Connecticut River, the ice can take longer to freeze and currents can create holes in the ice and that can make ice thickness unpredictable. Because of these factors, ice can never be considered completely safe. The Massachusetts State Police is asking you to use good judgment before venturing out on the ice and if you see anyone in danger to call 911. Local News Headlines Pinning ceremony held for three of Springfields newest firefighters Springfield Police Department retired K9 to receive national recognition for his service Study finds financial incentives help people quit smoking Chicopee man arrested during disturbance outside bar on Belmont Ave in Springfield 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.