Self-Rescue

 

  • If you have fallen through the ice, cry for help.

Kutsu_abi
 

  • Stay calm, try not to panic, and avoid abrupt movements.

Jää_rahulikuks
 

  • Avoid being pulled under the ice by streams of water.

jää_rahulikuks_2
 

  • Stretch your hands towards the edge of the ice hole, and with strong swimming movements, try to drag your body, and then your legs, out of the water and onto the ice. Try to stay on your stomach as much as possible to minimize the impact of your weight on the ice. By doing so, you decrease the risk of breaking the ice again.
Roni_jääle_2

Roni_jääle
 

  • If you are in the possession of ice traction cleats, these might help you to get out of the water faster. Hold a cleat with both hands and use these to get a grip on the ice, then pull yourself onto the ice.

Kasuta_jäänaelu
 

  • When out of the water, avoid getting up, as you might fall through the ice again. Roll or crawl away from the ice hole.
Rullu_eemale

Liigu_madalalt_1
 

  • If at a safe distance, stand up and leave the ice by taking the same path used for coming to the ice.

Liigu_madalalt_1
 

  • Find a place to warm up and change your wet clothes. If you do not have dry clothes on hand, wringing out your wet clothes will also help.