Which item would be least typical in an ice rescue victim packaging kit?

• A. Sledgehammer
• B. Backboard
• C. Insulating cover
• D. Flotation aids

Answer: (A)

In ice rescue, the goal of the victim packaging kit is to immobilize the victim, protect them from further injury, and minimize heat loss during extraction and transport. A backboard provides rigid immobilization so spinal injuries aren’t worsened while moving the patient. An insulating cover helps preserve body heat and reduce hypothermia risk in the cold environment. Flotation aids contribute buoyancy and stability, making it safer to bring the victim to the surface and across any water or ice transitions. A sledgehammer, while useful for breaking through ice or creating openings, isn’t part of the packing and transporting setup and could cause harm or be impractical during extraction. For that reason, the sledgehammer is the least typical item in a victim packaging kit.