In cold-water immersion self-rescue, which action sequence is recommended when you have fallen through ice?

• A. If in open water, get to marine transportation
• B. If you have fallen through ice, place arms on surface of ice, kick legs until body is horizontal to water's surface, then kick forward until you are on ice
• C. Roll away after standing
• D. Stand up immediately and walk away

Answer: (B)

When you fall through ice, the goal is to get yourself back onto the surface with as little energy loss as possible while keeping your airway clear and your body protected from heat loss. The best sequence is to place your forearms on the surface of the ice to support your weight, then kick your legs to bring your body toward the surface until you’re nearly horizontal to the water, and finally kick forward to slide up onto the ice. Once you’re on the ice, roll away from the hole and move to safety.

Other options miss the point of a controlled, energy-efficient ascent: trying to reach open water or a vessel isn’t the immediate priority, and standing up immediately in the water can lead to exhaustion and reentry into the water.