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Drowning is one immediate danger, but
usually the victims are able to keep their heads above water by clinging
to the edge of the broken ice. Most fatalities are caused by
hypothermia.
Victims have only a few minutes to extract themselves from the water
before their hands become too stiff to use. Then they must depend on
rescue by others. Some anglers carry spikes on strings. Dug into the
slick, wet ice at the edge of a hole, they can help a victim crawl out
of the water. Once out of the water, crawl or roll back along your path
to safe ice. If you see someone go through the ice, be extremely careful
attempting a rescue. You don't want to end up in the water, too. Reach
for the victim with your ice auger, fishing poles or anything of
adequate length that lets you remain out of danger. Remove your belt or
other clothing and fashion a rope to reach the victim.
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