In the standard five-step ice rescue sequence, which method comes immediately before the helicopter option?

• A. Reach
• B. Throw
• C. Row
• D. Go

Answer: (D)

In ice rescue, the steps are arranged from lowest to highest risk while trying to reach the victim with safer methods first. After you’ve tried reaching and tossing a flotation device, and then using a boat to get closer, the next move is to go out and physically reach the victim. This “go” step means advancing toward the person on or under the ice, using proper protective gear and lines as needed, to make contact and secure them for removal. Only after exhausting those surface and contact options would you bring in aerial support via helicopter. That’s why the method before the helicopter is the go step—it’s the direct, on-the-scene effort to reach the victim when other methods can’t close the gap.