True or False: Ice supports moving objects better than stationary objects; therefore, a rescuer should remain rigid and still if the ice below him begins to break.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not Sure
• D. Depends

Answer: (B)

Ice does not become safer because something is moving across it; what really matters is how the weight is applied. Ice fails under concentrated loads, and a moving object can still create high localized pressures and vibrations that crack the surface further. If the ice is breaking, the goal is to minimize the load per area and stay low to spread weight across as much of the ice as possible. Lower your center of gravity, lie or crawl to increase contact area, and slowly move toward solid ice or shore rather than freezing in place with a rigid posture. This way you reduce peak stress on the ice and increase your chances of staying on safe, intact surface.