Ice Fishing Rescue In case of Emergency, call 911 The first thing you want to do as a would be rescuer is to get buoyancy to the victim. While doing this talk to the victim, calm them and reassure them that help is on the way. There are many things that can float, be inventive (ie. Bucket seats with snap on lids, rear car seats, spare tires, etc.) Remember you want to get something to the victim that they can wrap there arms around. Fingers and your grip tend to lose strength and dwindle rapidly in cold/wet winter weather. This makes grabbing things almost next to impossible after the fist few minutes. When sliding these items out to the victim always do so from the side. This eliminates the possibility of the ice breaking loose where the victim is holding on. Always talk to the victim, let them know what you are doing. If a rope is available tie a loop in it and throw it to the victim. Always tie a loop in the rope before throwing it. The victim probably will not be able to grasp it or tie it on themselves. After the victim is stable get REAL HELP!!!! Get the people with the equipment and know how to do the rescue. You do not want to pull the person on the ice or have themselves do this. The area is probably weakened which could make them fall through again. They would also be expending valuable energy that is needed to keep there body warm. When your thinking about going out on the ice to rescue someone, remember that even trained rescuers use the motto throw, row, then go. The last resort is to go out to the victim in person. This increases the danger to both the victim and rescuer. As a would be rescuer just remember the basics. Never go on the ice without a flotation device, stabilize the victim, get help rapidly. Always talk to the victim, be calming, reassuring, and informative of the situation. BE SAFE!!!