Winter, like all other seasons, contains its hidden perils.

On Friday afternoon, Delvin L. Jones and friends were reportedly sledding near a pond behind Colander Bishop Meadows Apartments. Evidently, he went out with others onto the ice, but the surface was deceitfully strong looking and it was Jones who fell in as it broke beneath him. Hours later he died in spite of all attempts to resuscitate him.

If any consolation can be drawn from the incident, it is that other parents will stress to their children that frozen ponds are never to be trusted. Another thing to consider is not to sled anywhere near vehicular traffic. Once momentum builds, you can’t always control the craft to a smooth and safe stop. Taking a few minutes to assess an area for outdoor playing can prevent a lifetime of grief.